MRI Diagnostic Protocols

With the addition of the 3.0T MRI at Visalia Imaging, we are now able to offer specialized diagnostic and therapeutic protocols for Neuroradiology. These include:

• High resolution isometric imaging of brain for seizure evaluation and neurodegenerative diseases

• Contrast MR brain perfusion for evaluation of brain perfusion, stroke, TIA; assess brain flow reserve, brain arteriovenous malformation, and tumor angiogenesis (for post-op tumor resection follow-up)

• ASL (arterial spin labeling) MR brain perfusion Non-contrast technique to evaluate for brain perfusion (useful in patients with renal failure or contrast allergy) Sensitive technique to detect small skull base dAVF as the cause of vascular tinnitus

• DTI (Diffusion Tractography Imaging)

  1. Brain white matter mapping (useful for tumor localization for neurosurgical planning for better post-op outcome

  2. Evaluation of DAI (Diffuse Axonal Injury)

• MR Spectroscopy for metabolic brain disease or tumor evaluation

  1. CSF flow study

  2. Chiari-I malformation

  3. Aqueductal stenosis

  4. Evaluation of third ventriculotomy patency

• High resolution neurovascular imaging (MRA brain and neck)

• High resolution imaging of head/neck, orbits, and skull base

• High resolution imaging of spine

Thu T. Le, MD, Neuroradiologist Visalia Imaging