Deep Brain Stimulation Electrode Deviations are Associated with Brain Stiffness Interfaces Measured by Magnetic Resonance Elastography

Motivation: Accurate placement of deep brain stimulator (DBS) electrodes is critical for optimal outcomes. Electrode deviation remains a clinical challenge, which requires additional brain penetrations for repositioning. Goal(s): To determine whether prominent brain stiffness interfaces identified by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) influence DBS electrode deviations; and to assess the potential of MRE to improve surgical planning. Approach: Ten patients undergoing DBS for Parkinson's Disease underwent preoperative MRE and postoperative imaging. Correlations between planned trajectory angles relative to stiffness interfaces and electrode deviation were analyzed. Results: The angle of approach to a stiffness interface was significantly correlated with DBS electrode deviation. Impact: These findings could lead to the development of MRE-based preoperative planning tools, improving DBS accuracy and reducing revision surgeries. The study provides new insights into brain stiffness interfaces, opening avenues for further exploration of their role in stereotactic surgery.