Open AccessNeuroimaging in adult penetrating brain injury: a guide for radiographers
Author(s) -
Temple Nikki,
Donald Cortny,
Skora Amanda,
Reed Warren
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of medical radiation sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.484
H-Index - 18
eISSN - 2051-3909
pISSN - 2051-3895
DOI - 10.1002/jmrs.101
Subject(s) - neuroimaging , medicine , magnetic resonance imaging , modalities , modality (human–computer interaction) , radiology , medical imaging , angiography , medical physics , radiography , computer science , psychiatry , social science , human–computer interaction , sociology
Abstract Penetrating brain injuries ( PBI ) are a medical emergency, often resulting in complex damage and high mortality rates. Neuroimaging is essential to evaluate the location and extent of injuries, and to manage them accordingly. Currently, a myriad of imaging modalities are included in the diagnostic workup for adult PBI , including skull radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography, with each modality providing their own particular benefits. This literature review explores the current modalities available for investigating PBI and aims to assist in decision making for the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging when presented with an adult PBI . Based on the current literature, the authors have developed an imaging pathway for adult penetrating brain injury that functions as both a learning tool and reference guide for radiographers and other health professionals. Currently, CT is recommended as the imaging modality of choice for the initial assessment of PBI patients, while MRI is important in the sub‐acute setting where it aids prognosis prediction and rehabilitation planning, Additional follow‐up imaging, such as angiography, should be dependent upon clinical findings.