Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is used to identify specific areas of the brain that are activated during tasks such as speech, memory, or movement. While general brain regions responsible for these functions are well known, the exact location can vary from person to person. Identifying these areas with precision allows doctors to plan surgery or other treatments more safely and effectively.
What Happens During the fMRI?
The fMRI scan is performed using the same MRI equipment and is very similar to a standard MRI exam. To obtain the most accurate images:
- Your head will be stabilized in a helmet-like positioning device to minimize movement.
- You will wear special headphones that both block the loud scanner noise and allow medical staff to communicate with you during the scan.
Depending on the function being evaluated (e.g., speech, memory, motor control), you will be asked to perform specific tasks during the scan. These may include:
- Touching your fingers to your thumb
- Answering simple questions
- Solving basic math problems
These tasks help identify the functionally active areas of your brain in real time.
How Long Does It Take?
The entire fMRI examination takes approximately 1 hour.
Where Can You Have a fMRI?
Adult Patients
If your fMRI is focused on speech or motor function, the scan will be performed at the Department of Imaging Methods at St. Anne’s University Hospital (FNUSA). The specific location will be in Pavilion B1, O1, or M, and you will be informed of the exact building when your appointment is scheduled.
For memory-focused fMRI, which is especially important in the evaluation prior to left-sided epilepsy surgery (e.g., anterior mesial temporal resection – AMTR), the examination takes place at the Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC MU), part of Masaryk University’s campus in Brno-Bohunice: Kamenice 735/5, Brno (Entrance from Studentská Street)
Paediatric Patients
For pediatric patients undergoing fMRI focused on speech or motor functions, the examination is performed at the Children’s Hospital (Dětská nemocnice), on the 2nd floor of Pavilion G, at the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine.
Need to schedule a follow-up appointment or running out of medication?
Adults +420 543 183 324
Children +420 532 234 917