The ventricular-brain ratio on computed tomography scans: validity and proper use

Area of Science:

• Neuroradiology
• Neuroimaging analysis
• Quantitative anatomy

Background:

• Planimetric measurement of ventricular area on computed tomography (CT) scans offers a practical approach to assess ventricular size.
• This method is often reported as a planimetric ventricular-brain ratio (VBR).
• The rationale for using a ratio stems from the established relationship between ventricular and cranial size in healthy adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility and limitations of planimetric ventricular-brain ratio (VBR) measurements.
• To provide recommendations for the appropriate application of planimetric methods in neuroimaging.
• To address potential biases in experimental results when assessing ventricular size.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing computed tomographic (CT) sections for planimetric area measurements of brain ventricles.
• Calculating the ventricular-brain ratio (VBR) as a measure of ventricular size.
• Reviewing existing literature and clinical data to assess the VBR's applicability across different age groups and conditions.

Main Results:

• Planimetric VBR is a convenient and useful method for assessing ventricular size, especially when advanced techniques are unavailable.
• The VBR may not be a suitable metric for conditions acquired during childhood due to altered scaling relationships.
• Potential biases in experimental results can arise from the inappropriate application of VBR.

Conclusions:

• Planimetric ventricular area measurement is a valuable tool in neuroimaging.
• Guidelines are proposed to ensure the accurate and unbiased use of planimetric methods, particularly the VBR.
• Careful consideration of the VBR's limitations is crucial, especially in pediatric neuroimaging studies.