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Brain Perfusion Changes in a Patient with Facial Trauma
Chrissa Sioka1, Anastasia Zikou2, Petros Petrikis3
1University of Ioannina Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ioannina, Greece.
Molecular Imaging and Radionuclide Therapy
|June 20, 2023
Summary
Facial trauma can impact brain blood flow. Regional cerebral blood flow imaging using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) revealed temporary left hemisphere hypoperfusion, which improved over time.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Facial trauma can lead to complex injuries affecting facial bones and potentially the brain.
- Cerebrovascular status assessment is crucial in evaluating patients with significant head and facial injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the utility of brain perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in assessing cerebrovascular changes following facial trauma.
- To determine if observed hypoperfusion is reversible.
Main Methods:
- A 69-year-old male with left facial fractures underwent brain computed tomography (CT) and regional cerebral blood flow SPECT.
- A follow-up SPECT scan was performed 4 months post-injury.
Main Results:
- Initial brain CT was unremarkable for acute intracranial abnormalities.
- Initial SPECT revealed hypoperfusion in the left cerebral hemisphere.
- Follow-up SPECT demonstrated substantial improvement in left hemisphere perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Brain perfusion SPECT can detect and monitor cerebrovascular changes, such as hypoperfusion, after facial trauma.
- These perfusion deficits may be transient and reversible.
- SPECT imaging may offer valuable insights into the cerebrovascular status in patients with facial injuries.
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