Role of White Matter Fiber Anatomy in Preservation of Higher Cognitive Function during Neurosurgery

Abstract

  Higher brain function relates to advanced cognitive operations associated with the transmission, expression, understanding, and execution of behavior. In order to preserve higher brain function during neurosurgery, it is essential to know its functional localization and related neural networks. Fiber dissection is the best method for understanding the organization of the fasciculus. The superior longitudinal fasciculus, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, frontal aslant tract, and cingulum, which control higher brain function, can be observed with fiber dissection. During awake surgery, appropriate tasks can identify the higher brain function-related areas and the fasciculus. It allows us to prevent the possible damage that might occur if the surgery had to have been carried out under general anesthesia. In this way, it has become possible to ensure a preservation of higher brain function during neurosurgery.