MR imaging technique that permits direct and non-invasive visualization of brain surface structures (Surface Anatomy Scanning, SAS) was developed using the combination of long TE, long TR spin echo sequence and thick slice. Clinical trials in 67 patients with SAS showed excellent visualization of the sulci and the gyri on the lateral, occipital, frontal and parietal surfaces of the brain together with cortical and subcortical lesions. The results indicate that the SAS is useful for the localization of cortical and subcortical pathology, for the diagnosis of anomalous gyral patterns, and for surgical planning.