UC researchers seek improved targeting in Parkinson's surgery

A $51,000 grant will enable University of Cincinnati researchers to determine whether sophisticated new imaging technologies can help them achieve pinpoint placement of deep-brain stimulation electrodes in patients with Parkinson's disease, reports UC HealthNews.

The pilot study, taking place at University Hospital, will utilize a 3-Tesla MRI scanner and diffusion tensor imaging fiber tracking to quickly and accurately predict the size and position of the subthalamic nucleus, a small area deep within the brain that varies in size and location from patient to patient.

Stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus often alleviates the symptoms of Parkinson's, making its quick and easy location paramount to improving a patient's quality of life.

Funding for the 20-patient study comes from the Sunflower Revolution, an annual fundraiser and bike ride held in Cincinnati.

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