MRI BRAIN CSF FLOW STUDY
Also Known As
Lab Test
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About The Test
- Painless & Radiation-Free: No injections or X-rays
- Duration: 30–45 minutes total appointment time
- Cadabams Edge:
- 3T high-field MRI for razor-sharp images
- Fellowship-trained neuroradiologists reporting every scan
List of Parameters
| Parameter | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| Peak systolic velocity | Highest CSF speed during heartbeat |
| Diastolic velocity | Lowest speed, helps detect blockages |
| Flow direction | Forward, reverse, or turbulent flow |
| Stroke volume | Amount of CSF shifted per heartbeat |
| Flow patterns | Normal pulsatile vs. obstructed flow |
Why This Test
- Determine normal vs. obstructed CSF circulation
- Guide VP shunt placement or surgical decompression
- Monitor post-surgical CSF dynamics after Chiari repair or shunt revision
- Evaluate idiopathic intracranial hypertension
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of MRI CSF Flow Study
- Non-invasive – no injections or incisions
- Quantitative accuracy – precise velocity and volume data
- Early detection – prevents memory loss or walking difficulties
- Repeatable – safe for ongoing monitoring
Diagnosed Conditions by CSF Flow Study Radiology
- Communicating hydrocephalus – CSF reabsorption failure
- Non-communicating hydrocephalus – blockage within ventricles
- Chiari I / II malformation – abnormal cerebellar tonsil position
- CSF leaks – post-traumatic or spontaneous spinal fluid loss
- Intracranial hypotension – sagging brain due to low pressure
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Remove all metallic objects: jewelry, hairpins, belts
- Fasting: Not required; light meal allowed
- Best time: Any time of day; avoid caffeine if anxious
Eligibility
- Age: Adults and children ≥5 years
- Pregnancy: Discuss with radiologist in first trimester
Procedure Steps
- Change into MRI-safe gown.
- Lie on table; head in 12-channel brain coil.
- Foam padding to keep head still.
- 2–3 short scans (2–3 minutes each) + 5-minute CSF flow sequence.
- Total table time: ~20 minutes.
Caution Checklist
- Inform staff of pacemaker, implants, claustrophobia, contrast allergies.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations of the MRI Brain CSF Flow Study
| Finding / Observation | Description (Example Values/Observations) | General Interpretation/Significance (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal flow | Smooth, forward-moving CSF | No obstruction |
| Reduced velocity | <2 cm/s peak systolic | Possible aqueductal stenosis |
| Reversed flow | CSF moves backward | Chiari malformation sign |
| High stroke volume | >42 µL/heartbeat | Communicating hydrocephalus |
| Turbulent jets | Chaotic flow pattern | CSF leak or fistula |
| Patency of CSF Pathways | Aqueduct of Sylvius appears patent; fourth ventricular outlets unremarkable | No evidence of obstruction; normal CSF circulation expected. |
| Patency of CSF Pathways | Significant narrowing noted at the aqueduct level | Suggestive of aqueductal stenosis, potentially causing obstructive hydrocephalus. |
| Shunt Patency (if VP shunt present) | Visible pulsatile flow within ventricular catheter and shunt tubing | Shunt appears patent and functional. |
| Shunt Patency (if VP shunt present) | No flow signal detected within shunt tubing; ventricles enlarged | Possible shunt malfunction or blockage; clinical correlation needed. |
| Presence of Abnormal Flow Jets | Abnormal turbulent jetting flow from third ventricle into aqueduct | May indicate pressure gradient or partial obstruction c |
| Qualitative CSF Pulsatility | Generally diminished CSF pulsatility throughout supratentorial cisterns | Seen in intracranial hypotension or advanced hydrocephalus with poor compliance. |
Risks & Limitations
Safety Profile
- No radiation – safe for children and repeat scans
- No contrast dye required in most cases
- Claustrophobia: Open-bore 3T scanner reduces anxiety; music headsets available
Limitations
- Motion artefacts – slight head movement can blur images
- Contraindications: pacemakers, cochlear implants, certain aneurysm clips
- Pregnancy: first-trimester scans only when medically essential
FAQs
Is the test painful?
No. You only hear soft knocking sounds; earplugs are provided.
How long before I get results?
Scans are read the same day; digital reports emailed in 1–3 hours.
Can I drive home after the scan?
Yes, unless you take oral sedation (rare for this test).
Is contrast dye always needed?
Rarely. Most CSF flow studies are done without gadolinium.
What if my child needs sedation?
Pediatric anesthetists at Cadabams Diagnostics provide safe, mild sedation for children under 5.
What happens if an abnormality is found on my study?
If your MRI Brain CSF Flow Study reveals any abnormalities, your referring doctor will discuss these findings with you in detail. They will explain the nature of the abnormality, what it means in the context of your symptoms and overall health, and recommend next steps. This could involve further tests, referrals, or treatment plans. The goal is to use the findings to guide your care appropriately.