Which device would best localize a brain tumor and why. Conventional x-ray, DSA, PET, sonography, MRI.?

Question

Which device would best localize a brain tumor and why. Conventional x-ray, DSA, PET, sonography, MRI.?

Answer 1

Conventional X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation and as such can be dangerous.  Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is used to visualize blood vessels.  Positron emission tomography (PET) is a nuclear medicine imaging technique which produces a three-dimensional image or map of functional processes in the body.  Sonography is the same as ultrasound.  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides contrast between the soft tissues of the body.  

I assume you are referring to localizing a brain tumor during surgery.  I had brain surgery to remove a brain tumor 4 years ago and intra-operative MRI was used. My tumor was diagnosed with an MRI.  I had a PET scan prior to surgery to determine if the internal carotid artery was compromised by the tumor (it was).  I still have regular MRI's to check for recurrence.  I have never had x-ray, DSA or sonogram of my brain.  I hope this helps.