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Published on: December 30, 2015
Magnetic resonance imaging of brain death
D H Lee1, J A Nathanson, A J Fox
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, London, Ont.
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals distinct brain changes in patients with clinical brain death, including loss of subarachnoid spaces and altered blood flow. These MRI findings may aid in confirming brain death diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Clinical brain death diagnosis relies on neurological criteria.
- Advanced neuroimaging techniques are being explored to supplement clinical assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate the characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in the brains of individuals diagnosed with clinical brain death.
Main Methods:
- High-field (1.5-T) MRI was conducted on five patients diagnosed with clinical brain death.
- Conventional T1-weighted and T2-weighted imaging sequences were utilized.
Main Results:
- Consistent MRI findings across all patients included loss of subarachnoid spaces and altered cerebral blood flow.
- Absence of flow void in intracranial arteries and venous sinuses was observed.
- Preserved grey-white matter differentiation and a "supernormal" brain appearance were noted, differentiating from comatose patients.
Conclusions:
- MRI demonstrates unique brain imaging features in clinical brain death.
- With advancements in MRI technology for intensive care units, MRI may serve as an additional tool for confirming brain death.
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