[Reliability and accuracy of arcuate fasciculus navigation: analysis of 43 cases].

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the reliability and accuracy of arcuate fasciculus (AF) navigation for AF localization and reconstruction. METHODS Reconstruction of the AF and assessment of the aphasia quotient (AQ) were performed in 43 cases before and after surgical removal of lesions in the language area of the brain. The minimal distance between the AF and the lesion (D(1)), preoperative AQ (AQ(1)), the minimal distance between the AF and the surgical cavity (D(2)), and the postoperative AQ (AQ(2)) were measured. Linear correlation analysis was conducted between D(1) or D(2) and the corresponding AQ(1) or AQ(2) to assess the relationship between the AF and language function. The language function of each patient was evaluated postoperatively. RESULTS The AF was successfully reconstructed in all the cases. The tractography results of the identical AF generated by 3 different users showed good congruency. A positive linear correlation was demonstrated between D(1) and AQ(1) (P<0.001) and between D(2) and AQ(2) (P=0.001). Only two patients (4.7%) showed language deficits at postoperative follow-up. CONCLUSION AF navigation is a reliable and accurate technique for AF reconstruction and localization and helps to preserve the language function after surgical removal of lesions in the language area of the brain.