The future of magnetic resonance-based techniques in neurology

Magnetic resonance techniques have become increasingly important in neurolo gy for defining: 1 brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerve or muscle structure, 2 pathological changes in tissue structures and properties: and 3 dynamic patterns of functional activation of the brain. New applications have been driven in part by advances in hardware, particul arly improvements in magnet and gradient coil design. Neu: imaging strategi es allow novel approaches to contrast with, for example, diffusion imaging, magnetization transfer imaging. perfusion imaging and Functional magnetic resonance imaging. In parallel with developments in hardware and image acqu isition have been new approaches to image analysis. These have allowed quan titative descriptions of the image changes to be used for a precise, non-in vasive definition of pathology. With the increasing capabilities and specif icity of magnetic resonance techniques it is becoming more important that t he neurologist is intimately involved in both the selection of magnetic res onance studies for patients and their interpretation. There is a need for c onsiderably improved access to magnetic resonance technology, particularly in the acute or intensive care ward and in the neurosurgical theatre. This report illustrates several key developments. The task force concludes that magnetic resonance imaging is a major clinical tool of growing significance and offers recommendations for maximizing the potential future for magneti c resonance techniques in neurology.