Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
Imaging of the intracranial venous system
Ronit Agid1, Ilan Shelef, James N Scott
1Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. ronit.agid@uhn.on.ca
Background:
Evaluation of the intracranial venous system has historically been performed with conventional catheter-based digital subtraction angiography (DSA). The continued importance of DSA can not be overstated in light of its inherent option of endovascular intervention and thrombolysis for cerebral venous thrombosis. DSA is, however, an invasive procedure with associated risks, including radiation exposure, and adverse effects of iodinated contrast medium. DSA also suffers from the limitations of 2-dimensional planar imaging. For these reasons, noninvasive imaging techniques are playing a greater role in evaluation of the intracranial venous system.
Review Summary:
This review provides an overview of the current noninvasive methods and their applications and limitations, with examples of their use in a variety of disease processes. Computed tomography venography (CTV) is discussed as well as the various types of cerebral magnetic resonance venography (MRV).
Conclusion:
When available, MR supplemented with the technique of triggered gadolinium-enhanced MRV is the method of choice for the diagnosis of dural sinus thrombosis as well as most other pathologic entities affecting the intracranial venous system.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Veins of Head and Neck
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
