Techniques for measuring cerebral blood flow in children

Pathologic alterations in cerebral blood flow and metabolism commonly occur following a variety of insults to the brain. An understanding of blood flow and metabolic abnormalities and the ability to monitor and manipulate cerebral blood flow and metabolism may improve outcome following brain injury. Multiple methods have been developed in an attempt to accurately measure cerebral blood flow metabolism. Each method has its unique advantages as well as limitations. The method utilized is dependent upon the clinical situation, the type of information needed, and the availability of the technique. This review provides an overview of the theory and application of the techniques that have been used to evaluate cerebral blood flow in children.