A Primer on Computed Tomography Perfusion Imaging for the Emergency Physician.

BACKGROUND

Brain noncontrast computed tomography (CT), CT angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging have been used clinically for decades, and emergency physicians have a good understanding of their indications, the meaning of their results, and some facility with the interpretation of CT. However, brain CT perfusion (CTP) is relatively new and emergency physicians are less familiar with its basic concepts, indications, and role in managing patients with neurological emergencies.

OBJECTIVE

We will review the parameters of clinical interest on a CTP report, and how to incorporate them into clinical decision-making.

DISCUSSION

Endovascular therapies paired with CTP have opened up a new frontier in stroke management for severely debilitated stroke patients. It is important for emergency physicians to have an understanding of CTP and how to use it clinically.

CONCLUSION

Taking care of patients with large-vessel occlusions is multidisciplinary, and emergency physicians need to understand CTP imaging and its clinical utility.