MRI-guided needle localization in the head and neck using contemporaneous imaging in an open configuration system

Background. MRI-guided procedures have previously been limited by technical difficulties, including the need for MRI-compatible instruments, slow imag e acquisition time, and the closed nature of conventional MRI scanners. The development of open configuration MRI systems with in-room, contemporaneou s imaging has greatly increased the potential for MRI-guided interventional procedures. We evaluate our clinical experience applying this technology t o the head and neck. Methods. An open design 0.2T magnet combined with an in-room monitor was us ed for 24 MRI-guided needle localization procedures in the head and neck. S uccess of the procedures was based on the ability to accurately position th e instrument in the target region to allow biopsy or treatment. Results. In all 24 cases placement of the instrument within the target tiss ue was successful. Conclusion. MRI-guided needle-localization procedures in an open design mag net with in-room, contemporaneous image monitoring offer advantages over pr evious conventional interventional MRI systems by allowing interactive guid ance with near real-time imaging feedback. As a result, procedure time is r educed and accuracy of instrument positioning is increased. (C) 2000 John W iley & Sons, Inc.