Visual mapping using blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is used clinically to map visual cortex prior to brain surgery or other invasive treatments in order to achieve an optimal balance between therapeutic effect and the avoidance of post-operative vision deficits. Clinically optimized stimuli, behavioral task, analysis and displays permit identification of cortical subregions supporting high acuity central vision that is critical for reading and other essential visual functions. A novel data display permits instant appreciation of the functional relationship between the pattern of fMRI brain activation and the pattern of vision loss and preservation within the patient’s field of view. Neurovascular uncoupling and its detection in visual cortex are key issues for the interpretation of fMRI results in patients with existing brain pathology. Emerging techniques such as resting state fMRI may facilitate the use of fMRI-based vision mapping with a broader range of patients.