voxel-based morphometry
Pronunciation: VOCK-sel
Computational technique for statistical comparison of brain anatomy across groups using high-resolution structural MRI.
Full Definition
Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) is a neuroimaging analysis technique that allows investigation of focal differences in brain anatomy using statistical parametric mapping. The method involves spatial normalization of high-resolution structural images to a standard template, segmentation into different tissue types, and statistical comparison on a voxel-by-voxel basis. VBM can detect subtle regional differences in gray matter volume, white matter integrity, or cortical thickness between groups or over time. This technique has been widely applied in research studies of neurological and psychiatric disorders to identify patterns of structural brain changes.
Usage
Usage note: Primarily used in research contexts; specify statistical correction methods.
In Context
- "Voxel-based morphometry revealed significant gray matter reduction in the hippocampal region." — Research methodology description
- "The VBM analysis was corrected for multiple comparisons using family-wise error correction." — Statistical analysis methods