Neuroradiological Imaging of Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Fundamentals and recent advances in imaging techniques and selection paradigms for the diagnosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI) will be discussed. Characteristic imaging findings for common TBI lesions will be described. Computed tomography (CT) is the modality of choice for the initial assessment of acute TBI. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended for patients with acute TBI when the neurological findings are unexplained by CT. For the evaluation of subacute and chronic TBI, MRI is the modality of choice. MR techniques, such as diffusion-weighted imaging, can improve the identification of otherwise occult lesions, especially with mild TBI. Modalities such as susceptibility-weighted imaging, diffusion tensor imaging and tractography, magnetization transfer imaging, magnetic source imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, and perfusion imaging provide novel insights into the diagnosis and management of TBI.