Magnetic Resonance in Surgical Oncology: I – On the Origin of the Spectrum

Abstract

The discovery of the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance occurred just 60 years ago. The profusion of subsequent discoveries in this domain has led to the development of magnetic resonance spectroscopy - refined as an analytical tool to discern molecular structure - and magnetic resonance imaging, a cornerstone of modern radiology. Observable alterations in cellular structure and metabolism can be discerned using the non-destructive chemical analysis of magnetic resonance spectroscopy in vitro or in vivo. Differences may thus be discerned between malignant and normal tissues.

Future of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Oncology

“…Conventional surgical biopsies are invasive and cannot be performed without violating the physiological and metabolic function of the involved tissues. As the two papers by Gluch 1,2 in the present issue of the Journal show, various MRI‐based tools (relaxation parameters, chemical shift and diffusion) have increasing number of clinical applications. These methods can revolutionize both diagnosis and therapy by providing more specific morphological, functional and metabolic parameters to characterize, define and monitor the disease process.…”