Applications of magnetic source imaging in evaluation of candidates for epilepsy surgery.

Epilepsy was the first clinical entity to which magnetic source imaging was applied; however, the technology available severely limited early studies. The introduction of large-array magnetic source imaging systems has enabled striking advances in the application of magnetic source imaging in epilepsy surgery programs. The superimposition of functional localization of epileptic sources on anatomic images from MR imaging or computed tomography allows precise definition of the area and extent of epileptogenic tissue for possible resection. Concordance of magnetic source imaging indications with other noninvasive studies may reduce that need for invasive studies in certain patient populations.