Navigated Brain Stimulation for non-invasive mapping of the cortex
The new Nexstim Navigated Brain Stimulation (NBS) System creates an accurate and detailed map of the critical functions of the cortex safely and non-invasively.
NBS uses stereotactic, MRI-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to gently excite neurons in the cortex. Sophisticated, real-time data processing and modeling enable unsurpassed accuracy and control of the electric field (E-field) inside the brain. Integrated electromyography (EMG) shows the responses to stimuli in the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nerves. After mapping, the critical eloquent areas of the cortex are visualized as detailed color maps in a 3-D rendering of the brain.
3-D cortical maps help neurosurgeons plan treatment strategies and allow patient and physician discuss to discuss outcomes before surgery. Avoiding the uncertainty of indirect methods, like fMRI, is a crucial advantage in neurosurgical decision-making. NBS allows confident interpretation of measurement results since it is a direct method, like the "gold standard" intra-operative direct electrocortical stimulation.
NBS mapping can be performed in comfort prior to surgery and is faster and more cost-effective than alternative functional imaging modalities.
NBS has a wide range of other diagnostic applications, including testing for motor tract integrity following stroke. Researchers are also exploring exciting neurotherapeutic applictions for NBS, including facilitating natural neuroplasticity with repetitive TMS (rTMS) in stroke rehabilitation.
