Systematic review of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) applications in the preoperative planning and treatment assessment of brain tumors

The utilization of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is critical in the preoperative planning phase of brain tumor surgery because it allows for a delicate balance between maximizing tumor resection and maintaining brain function. A decade of fMRI development was examined in this study, with a particular emphasis on its use in diagnosing and assessing the efficacy of brain cancer treatments. We examined the foundational principles, practical implementations, and verification of fMRI via direct brain stimulation, with particular emphasis on its capacity to detect cerebral regions affected by tumors that are eloquent in nature. Recently, fMRI has undergone significant progress, allowing for its integration into clinical workflows to facilitate precise mapping of brain functions. This extensive analysis encompasses the scrutiny of resting-state fMRI (Rs-fMRI) as a method of capturing functional connectivity, thereby providing significant insights into the management of patients with brain tumors. Methodological advancements, clinical applicability, and future orientations of fMRI are highlighted in this review, which emphasizes the substantial influence of the technique on neurosurgical planning and patient outcomes.