Structural magnetic resonance imaging: During this imaging method, images of the brain can be collected with the help of water in the brain and the resolution of images is comparatively better than CAT scan.Computer Axial Tomography (CAT) Scan: During CAT scan, X-rays of the brain from many angles are taken for determination of structural abnormalities.These are useful for collection of brain images. Given below is the information about the tools used in brain mapping. In this kind of mapping, areas with movement can be identified electrically even if the patient is under anesthesia. During this mapping process, areas where movements are involved can be identified during unconscious condition of the patient. Testing of any number of locations can be done by this method. This helps in creating the functional map of the brain area. With the help of a small electrical probe, testing of various locations on the surface of brain is carried out by the surgeon one after the other.

This type of mapping is called as an intra-operative brain mapping since it is carried out during an operation process. Mapping of brain electrically for the guidance of epilepsy surgery or tumor can be done in a two step process in general or during the surgery.Д«rain mapping is carried out during any type of surgery which involves exposure to the brain parts. Test for anesthesia is carried out prior to actual infusion to avoid complications. The process of brain mapping is carried out under general anesthesia. Hair on the head need to be shaved prior to the brain mapping. It reduces the complications during and after surgery. Having all the information about patients makes it easy during the surgical process. Record of patient's history is also kept handy. Sometimes, the neurosurgeon might advuse the patient to undergo and EEG prior to brain mapping, to pre-determine any possible obstacle in the course of the procedure Day Before SurgeryДЄ day before surgery, all medical records of the patients need to be organized. An ECG will help to assess cardiac function. Any abnormality in the results of these tests must be corrected prior to surgery. Patients need to inform the surgeon about their medications so that drug interactions and complications can be avoided.Д«lood tests to determine white cell count, blood sugar levels, renal function, liver function should be done. Medications which can interfere with the brain mapping need to be stopped. Prior to few days of mapping of the brain, patients need to quit smoking as well as alcohol consumption. This helps in reducing their fear and anxiety and helps in early recovery.

To help them relax, psychotherapy or counseling can be used.

Some patients may feel anxious about the process. Patients will be given instructions by the surgeon prior to the process of brain mapping. Given below are the conditions where brain mapping surgery is required. Some scientists have a belief that identification of the brain areas responsible for mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression can be done with the help of the brain mapping. An intelligence quotient (IQ) was considered non changeable previously which is not true as per advanced brain mapping studies. As per new studies in brain mapping, the brain is found to be plastic i.e., changeable. Differentiation between prefrontal cortex and primary motor cortex can be done with the help of brain mapping. For predicting condition of the brain along with injuries and brain-related issues such as autism or epilepsy, brain mapping is carried out.Д«rain mapping process helps in getting a basic understanding of brain anatomy. This is where creation of map of the brain comes into the picture. Thousands of paths can be created when the neurons in the brain get linked up. Still there are many mysteries about the brain which need to be resolved.

Science has advanced to the level, where we are aware of the things about the brain which were unknown before. At this very moment, out brain is having many neurons just like the internet having many pages of content. Why is Brain Mapping Required?ДЄccording to scientists, the brain acts like the internet. It also makes use of various branches, such as molecular and optogenetics, neurophysiology, stem cell, immunohistochemistry, nanotechnology and engineering (electrical, biomedical and material). This study involves use of various imaging methods, such as intra-operative, endoscopic, microscopic and multi-modality.

Brain mapping procedure