New MRI scan could help surgeons avoid facial nerve damage during brain tumor removal

This study tested a special MRI technique called diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) to map the facial nerve before surgery for vestibular schwannoma, a benign brain tumor. The facial nerve is at risk during surgery, and injury can cause permanent facial weakness. The study involved 38 adults scheduled for surgery, who received an extra 10-minute MRI scan. Researchers compared the nerve position seen on the MRI with what surgeons found during the operation to see how accurate the technique was.