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Abstract #6705 Published in IGR 4-1
Qualitative perfusion imaging of the human optic nerve
Garcia GH; Donahue KM; Ulmer JL; Harris GJOphthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 2002; 18: 107-113
PURPOSE: Standard methods for the evaluation of human optic nerve perfusion provide limited information. In this pilot study, the authors investigated the feasibility of qualitative perfusion imaging, a recently developed neuroradiological technique, as a method of assessing human intraorbital optic nerve blood flow. METHODS: Qualitative perfusion imaging (based on magnetic resonance fast spin-echo sequences) was used to study the optic nerves of seven healthy volunteers and five patients with known optic nerve disease. Data regarding both study subject background and alteration in optic nerve signal intensity were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Control group subjects were significantly younger than study group subjects. No significant differences in optic nerve signal patterns were found within the control group. Comparison of patients with optic neuropathy against the normal composite revealed substantial differences in enhancement characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: Qualitative perfusion imaging of the human optic nerve is feasible and may serve as the basis for more advanced neuroradiological studies of optic nerve blood flow abnormalities.
Dr. G.H. Garcia, 1201 West La Veta Avenue, Orange, CA 92868, USA
Classification:
6.11 Bloodflow measurements (Part of: 6 Clinical examination methods)
