• Research
• Current Research Projects
• Research Faculty
• Resident Research Program
• Clinical Studies Seeking Volunteers
• Neuroscience Calendar
• Neurosurgery at Upstate

Cortical and Sensory Systems

David Carter, Associate Professor

Intraoperative Optical Imaging of Human Brain

We have begun to develop the technique of intraoperative functional imaging of the human brain. This modification of the optical imaging technique has the potential to yield high resolution maps of the functional subdivisions in human brain, and may lead to improvements in neurosurgical strategies. Although, specific brain functions are generally localized in certain areas of the brain, there is considerable variability in the precise localization.

Intraoperative optical imaging promises to enhance the functional localization that is needed for safe and accurate surgery. To date, however, this technique has only been attempted by a few groups on an experimental basis. We are actively engaged in improving the technique, to enhance its reliability and effectiveness, and explore its potential for routine use during neurosurgical procedures.

—David Carter, Daniel Ts’o, Paul Kent, Sean Huckins