Neuroimaging
Neuroimaging or brain imaging is the use of various techniques to either directly or indirectly image the structure, function, or pharmacology of the nervous system.
Imaging techniques
A wide range of techniques can be used to measure the structure and function of the brain. Some techniques are commonly used in clinical practice, while others are either experimental or predominantly used in research settings.
Electroencephalography (EEG)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
Computed tomography (CT)
Position Emission Tomography (PET)
Near InfraRed Spectroscopy (NIRS)
Magnetoencephalography (MEG)
List of common clinical neuroimaging
- X-ray
- Fluroscopy
- Computed tomography scan (CT scan)
- Positron emission tomography (PET scan) or (PET-CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain or spine (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum)
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
- Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV)
- Upright MRI
- CT myelogram
Dynamic imaging
Dynamic components can be added to many common imaging techniques to see how structure and function change in different positions. For example, a cervical MRI can be take in a neutral position, and compared to images taken of the neck in flexion and extension. This can aid in the diagnosis of Chiari malformation, Cerebellar tonsillar herniation, Craniocervical instability, and positional cord compression due to Cervical spinal stenosis. A cervical CT scan can be taken of the neck in neutral as compared to left and right positions to aid in the diagnosis of Atlantoaxial instability.
Other types of imaging seek to observe the dynamic flow of fluid in the nervous system. For example, a cine MRI is used to observe cerebrospinal fluid flow, which can be obstructed in some conditions, such as Chiari.
