The value of repeat neuroimaging for epilepsy at a tertiary referral centre: 16 years of experience.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the investigation of choice for detecting structural lesions that underlie and may accompany epilepsy. Despite advances in imaging technology, 20-30% of patients with refractory focal epilepsy have normal MRI scans. We evaluated the role of repeated imaging with improved MRI technology - an increase in field strength from 1.5T to 3T and superior head coils - in detecting pathology not previously seen.

Methods

Retrospective review of a large cohort of patients attending a tertiary epilepsy referral centre who underwent MRI at 1.5T (1995-2004) and subsequently 3T (2004-2011) with improved head coils. Scan reports were reviewed for the diagnoses and medical notes for the epilepsy classification.

Results

804 patients underwent i

SUBMITTER: Winston GP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3888924 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature