Brain perfusion: computed tomography and magnetic resonance techniques.

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Medical Physics
• Cerebrovascular Physiology

Background:

• Cerebral perfusion imaging evaluates regional microvascular hemodynamics in vivo.
• Clinical techniques commonly utilize X-ray computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review CT- and MRI-based cerebral perfusion imaging techniques.
• To discuss image acquisition, postprocessing, and fundamental differences between CT and MRI methods.
• To explore correlations with cerebrovascular physiology and clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of established CT- and MRI-based perfusion imaging protocols.
• Analysis of image acquisition parameters and postprocessing workflows.
• Comparison of CT and MRI techniques for hemodynamic assessment.

Main Results:

• Detailed examination of perfusion imaging acquisition and processing for CT and MRI.
• Discussion of key hemodynamic parameters measurable with these techniques.
• Highlighting differences and similarities between CT and MRI perfusion imaging.

Conclusions:

• Cerebral perfusion imaging offers vital insights into brain hemodynamics.
• CT and MRI techniques are crucial for diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disorders like stroke and brain tumors.