The neuroradiology journal
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Functional imaging modalities, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), are rapidly changing the scope and practice of neuroradiology. While these modalities have long been used in research, they are increasingly being used in clinical practice to enable reliable identification of eloquent cortex and white matter tracts in order to guide treatment planning and to serve as a diagnostic supplement when traditional imaging fails. ⋯ While fMRI is limited to visualization of gray matter, DTI permits visualization of white matter tracts through diffusion restriction along different axes. We will discuss the physical, statistical and physiological principles underlying these functional imaging modalities and explore new promising clinical applications.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
MRI DWI/ADC signal predicts shrinkage of lumbar disc herniation after O2-O3 discolysis.
Evaluate the discal morpho-structural changes as a predictive sign in the clinical outcome after ozone therapy in lumbar disc herniation using the T2-shine through effect in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). ⋯ T2-shine through effect in DWI is present before morphological disc reduction and moreover could be considered as a predictive sign of response to oxygen-ozone treatment.
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Case Reports
Reversible and Asymptomatic Gyral and Subarachnoid Contrast Enhancement after Carotid Stenting.
The presence of sulcal hyperdensity in patients after endovascular procedures is not necessarily attributable to hemorrhage. It may frequently indicate the absolute or concomitant extravasation of contrast material into the subarachnoid spaces. This case report describes the clinical case of an 84-year-old patient with 90% stenosis of the right internal carotid who presented with a diffuse gyral and sulcal hyperdensity in the right temporal-occipital and frontal lobes at routine post-carotid stenting (CAS) brain CT scan. ⋯ A 24-hour follow-up brain CT demonstrated the complete resolution of the hyperdensity, confirming the diagnosis. In this patient we considered the concomitant presence of gyral and sulcal hyperdensity as the consequence of reversible damage to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) determining a transitory extravasation of contrast material. Asymptomatic gyral and subarachnoid contrast enhancement following CAS is generally indicative of benign and transitory damage to the BBB and is not to be misinterpreted as hemorrhage.
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Review Meta Analysis
Functional outcomes and recanalization rates of stent retrievers in acute ischaemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Intra-arterial therapy for acute ischaemic stroke has evolved rapidly in the last few years. Stent retrievers have now replaced 'first-generation' devices, which have been the principle devices tested in stroke trials.Our aims were to determine the rates of successful recanalization and functional independence in acute stroke patients treated with stent retrievers. We also sought to assess the safety outcomes of stent retrievers by assessing the rates of mortality and intra-cranial haemorrhage. ⋯ Stent retrievers have the potential to achieve a high rate of recanalization and functional independence whilst being relatively safe. They should be assessed in well-designed randomized controlled trials to determine their efficacy and assess whether they compare favourably with 'standard treatment' in stroke.
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Review Case Reports
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: Successful Treatment of Two Patients Using the Penumbra System and Review of Endovascular Approaches.
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition. When showing resistance to treatment or a malignant progression despite anticoagulant therapy, endovascular interventional treatment is of help. The Penumbra System (PS), a novel thrombectomy device specifically designed to remove the thrombus in acute ischemic stroke, also proved to be an effective device for mechanical recanalization of CVST. ⋯ Literature reports showed that the PS can be successfully applied for treatment of CVST, though the methods used previously were diverse. The PS has proved to be effective in the rapid recanalization of CVST, but different treatment techniques exist. The solution to these problems depends on more clinical trials as well as further improvements to devices.