Optimal injection rate and catheter size for brain perfusion computed tomography using non-ionic contrast medium in...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Neuroimaging
• Comparative Medicine

Background:

• Brain perfusion computed tomography (PCT) is crucial for assessing cerebrovascular health.
• Optimizing contrast medium delivery is essential for accurate time-density curve (TDC) analysis in veterinary neuroimaging.
• Standardized parameters for PCT in canine models are needed for reliable clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of contrast medium injection rates and intravenous catheter sizes on brain PCT TDCs in Beagles.
• To establish reference ranges for perfusion parameters in clinically normal Beagles.
• To guide optimal contrast administration protocols for canine brain PCT.

Main Methods:

• Five healthy male Beagles underwent general anesthesia for PCT.
• Contrast medium was injected at 2, 3, and 4 mL/second using 20-gauge and 24-gauge catheters.
• Time-density curve parameters, including arterial and venous inflow/outflow times, were measured in the rostral cerebral artery and dorsal sagittal sinus.

Main Results:

• A 3 mL/second injection rate significantly shortened Tap-tv and Tap-ta compared to 2 mL/second with a 24-gauge catheter (P < .05).
• No significant differences in TDC parameters were observed based on catheter size alone.
• A 4 mL/second injection rate with a 24-gauge catheter frequently caused contrast leakage and catheter rupture.

Conclusions:

• A 3 mL/second injection rate with a 24-gauge catheter provides optimal image acquisition and stable contrast delivery for brain PCT in small dogs.
• PCT is a valuable tool for diagnosing cerebrovascular events and hemodynamic changes in canine patients.
• This study provides essential reference data for the clinical use of brain PCT in veterinary medicine.