Role of MRI CSF Flowmetry in Evaluation of Hydrocephalus in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, as well as in determining the underlying cause. Despite providing valuable anatomical data, conventional MR imaging in cases of hydrocephalus has some important limitations. Since the criteria for diagnosis of hydrocephalus on conventional MR images often depends on subjective evaluation by neuroradiologist and may be difficult to assess in some patients, a more reliable method is needed for more objective assessment. Phase contrast MR imaging is a rapid, simple and non-invasive technique which is sensitive to even small CSF flows, and can be used to evaluate CSF flow both qualitatively and quantitatively. Cine phase contrast MR images show CSF flow in a dynamic, more easily appreciable, and in a more pleasing manner, allowing the delineation of obstruction, if present, along the portions of CSF pathway. In conclusion, CSF flowmetry gives reliable and reproducible results for more accurate diagnosis, and can be used to guide therapeutic decisions in a more reliable manner, and follow up post treatment outcome (Quencer, 1992).