Visualization of Thalamic Subnuclei using DiMANI (Diffusion MRI for Anatomical Nuclei Imaging)

Motivation: Lack of direct visualization methods for thalamic subnuclei has resulted in variable patient outcomes and repeat surgeries in deep brain stimulation (DBS). Goal(s): To generate images with sufficient intra-thalamic contrast to visualize subnuclei for surgical intervention. Approach: We introduce DiMANI, an image obtained from combining diffusion-weighted volumes. We compared DiMANI to atlases as well as intra- and post-operative clinical DBS data. Results: DiMANI showed strong correspondence to anatomical organization from atlases, was highly reproducible, and was observable at both 3T and 7T. Clinical data from six DBS patients corroborated DiMANI’s ability to identify the motor and sensory thalamus locations. Impact: Visualization of thalamic subnuclei is now achievable using DiMANI, enabling direct targeting for DBS and MR-guided focused ultrasound procedures. This will provide immediate impact by enhancing clinical workflow efficiency, improving patient outcomes and advancing brain networks conception.