MRI BRAIN CSF FLOW STUDY

Introduction 

An MRI CSF flow study checkpoint holds diagnostic significance because it's aimed to identify anomalous behaviour of the cerebrospinal fluid which could indicate underlying conditions like abnormal hydrocephalus, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and Chiari Malformation.  

What is MRI Brain CSF Flow Study? 

This MRI study is conducted without an invasive surgery or a surgical intervention” and “it employs using the STD capture photo or sequence ‘phase contrast’ on remaindered flow. Unlike other types of scans, it reports negative dynamics which will allow neutral or positive dynamics on a detrimental structure additionally critical with the subject identification and airway examination to sick change. 

• Direction of CSF flow 
• CSF flow velocity 
• Patency of Aqueduct of Sylvius 
• Ventricular size and morphology 
• Flow voids or turbulence in CSF spaces 
• Turbulence in CSF Flow regions.  

• Confirm or exclude CSF flow obstruction of any kind.  
• Determine need for surgical intervention: e.g., shunt or decompression.  
• Assess outcomes after CSF diversion surgeries.  
• Determine if NPH is treatable.  

When and Who Needs a CSF Flow Study? 

Indications: 

• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).  
• Obstructive or Communicating Hydrocephalus.  
• Chiari I Malformation.  
• CSF Flow Obstructions or Cysts.  
• Assessment of Post-surgical or Shunt Outcomes.  

Patient Demographics: 

• Elderly patients with dementia-like symptoms.  
• Young patients with congenital malformations.  
• Post operative patients for shunt assessment.  
• Patients with headaches, dizziness, gait issues.  

Benefits of MRI CSF Flow Study

• Provides csf flow information.  
• Non-invasive technique that does not involve exposure to radiation. 
• Aiding in the early identification of treatable neurological conditions. 
• Aiding in the planning of surgical intervention. 

Diagnosed Conditions by CSF Flow Study Radiology

• NPH (Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus) 
• Chiari I Malformation 
• Obstruction within the ventricular system (obstructive hydrocephalus) 
• Arachnoid cysts causing blockage of cerebrospinal fluid flow 
• CFS leaks (alongside other sequences) 

• No fasting needed.  
• Needed to dress in clothing without metal.  
• Alert of any implants or medical devices.  
• Patients with claustrophobia can ask for light sedation. 

Pre-requisites for CSF Flow Study in Brain 

• Comprehensive clinical background and symptomatology. 
• Referred by a neurologist/neurosurgeon. 
• Almost always referred alongside a brain MRI because of structural correlation done parallelly. 

Best Time to Perform a CSF Flow Study 

• In presence of symptoms related to CSF flow (like difficulty walking, memory issues, and involuntary urination). 
• Post operatively for hydrocephalus and Chiari or prior to these surgeries. 
• Any asymptomatic phase continuous periods suggesting abnormal changes in CSF dynamics.  

Eligibility for MRI CSF Flow Study 

• All age groups. 
• Patients with non-MRI compatible implants are not suitable. 
• Those with claustrophobia may need sedation. 

Procedure for MRI Brain CSF Flow Study 

• The patient is reclined on the MRI bed and is required to not move.  
• Directly no contrast is injected. 
• Apply emphasis on areas where CSF flow occurs using phase-contrast sequences. 
• Typically lasts between thirty to forty-five minutes.  
• Neuroradiologist issues the findings.  

Caution During the CSF Flow Study 

• Accuracy is affected with movement during the set 
• Prior brain surgery or implanted devices, inform the radiologist* MRI safety screening must be done.