Functional MRI (fMRI) – Clinical Brain Activity Mapping
A non-invasive imaging technique used to identify and map functional areas of the brain by measuring activity-related blood flow changes.
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Board-certified specialists with decades of experience in diagnostic imaging.
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What is Functional MRI?
Functional MRI (fMRI) is a specialized MRI technique used to evaluate functional brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow that occur in response to specific tasks or stimuli.
During an fMRI exam, patients are asked to perform simple tasks—such as speaking, moving, or responding to visual cues—while imaging data is collected. This allows clinicians to identify and localize functional regions of the brain responsible for language, movement, sensation, and cognition.
Functional MRI is commonly used in clinical settings to support neurological evaluation, clinical decision-making, and pre-surgical mapping.
fMRI reveals active brain regions as highlighted areas
Brain Imaging Options
Choose the imaging pathway that best matches your clinical needs or broader brain health goals.
Clinical fMRI
Task-based functional MRI
Physician-referred, task-based functional MRI used to map brain activity for neurological evaluation and surgical planning.
- Task-based functional brain mapping
- Pre-surgical planning & eloquent cortex localization
- Epilepsy surgery evaluation
- Tumor & lesion assessment
- Referring physician-driven workflow
Regenesis™ Brain Health
Featuring the Synaptec Network MRI
Regenesis is a comprehensive brain health program and is not limited to functional MRI alone.
The Regenesis program is ideal for individuals seeking a broader, systems-level understanding of brain health and is separate from physician-referred clinical fMRI services.
- Comprehensive brain network analysis
- Connectivity, blood flow & metabolism mapping
- Advanced multi-sequence MRI protocols
- Age-matched comparisons
- Executive & longevity-focused insights
Not sure which pathway is right for you?
Clinical fMRI is designed for patients with a referring physician and a specific diagnostic or surgical need.
The Regenesis program is ideal for individuals seeking a broader, systems-level understanding of brain health and is separate from physician-referred clinical fMRI services.
When is fMRI Used?
Functional MRI is used clinically to localize critical brain functions and support surgical planning and neurological evaluation.
Epilepsy Surgery Planning
Map critical brain areas before surgery to treat medication-resistant epilepsy.
Brain Tumor Assessment
Identify functional brain regions to preserve during tumor resection.
Radiation Therapy Planning
Support radiation therapy planning by identifying functional brain regions to minimize risk to critical areas.
Post-Treatment Evaluation
Monitor brain function changes following medical procedures or treatments.
Clinical Functional MRI Brain Mapping
Advanced brain activity imaging that shows which regions control critical functions like movement, speech, and memory — essential for neurosurgical planning.
What This Program Does
- Maps brain regions responsible for movement, speech, vision, and other functions
- Tracks real-time blood flow changes during simple tasks
- Creates detailed functional maps for surgical planning
- Compares brain activation during task performance and rest periods to localize functional regions.
Who It's For
- Patients preparing for brain surgery
- Patients with epilepsy being evaluated for surgical intervention
- Patients with brain tumors or lesions near critical areas
- Post-procedure evaluation and follow-up monitoring
What You Receive
- High-resolution structural and functional brain MRI
- Color-coded brain activity maps
- Board-certified radiologist interpretation
- Detailed report to share with your neurosurgeon or neurologist
During Your Scan
- You'll wear a special head coil for clearer imaging
- Sound-canceling headphones let staff communicate with you
- Simple tasks like finger tapping or word association
- Total scan time approximately 45–60 minutes
Functional MRI (fMRI) – Clinical Brain Activity Mapping
Includes fMRI scan, activity mapping, radiologist interpretation, and detailed report.
This is a physician-referred clinical fMRI service and is separate from the Regenesis Brain Health Program.
$6,000
- 60 minutes
Your fMRI Experience
Book & Prepare
Schedule online or by phone. Skip caffeine on scan day and remove all metal items before your appointment.
Scan & Map
Relax in our wide-bore MRI while performing simple tasks. We'll guide you through headphones the entire time.
Receive Results
Get a detailed report with functional maps and radiologist interpretation to share with your care team.
How to Prepare
Day of Your Scan
Tell Us Before Your Scan
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard MRI shows brain structure — the anatomy. An fMRI shows brain function — which areas are active during specific tasks. Both use the same machine and are radiation-free.
Simple activities like tapping your fingers, naming objects, or following visual prompts. Our team guides you through headphones and the tasks are easy to perform.
Yes, fMRI is safe for children. Some children may need mild sedation to help them stay still. We'll discuss the best approach for your child's needs.
Coverage varies by plan and clinical indication. We provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement and can help you navigate the insurance process.
Plan for approximately 45–60 minutes for the fMRI portion. Your total appointment may be slightly longer to allow for preparation and any additional imaging needed.
Some fMRI scans use gadolinium contrast to enhance certain structures. Your provider will let you know if contrast is needed for your specific scan.
Map Your Brain Activity with fMRI
Get the detailed brain mapping your care team needs for confident surgical planning and treatment decisions.