Evaluation of brain circulation by rapid rotational computed tomography.

Continuous rapid rotational CT brain scanning now permits the study of brain circulation. The parameters studied are related to the transit time of circulation and to blood flow differences within small portions of the brain. For ease of description, this study is called regional brain circulation (rBC). This preliminary report is based on our experience with 75 consecutive cases studied since August 1, 1978. Displays of normal brain, cerebral ischemia, and arteriovenous malformations are analyzed in this paper. The normal graphic display of rBC includes peak concentration, transit time, washin and washout phases. Clinical application to medical-surgical treatment is illustrated.