Speeding Up Stroke Diagnosis: A Critical Factor in Effective Treatment
Stroke is a medical emergency that requires swift and accurate diagnosis to ensure timely and effective treatment. Every second counts, and rapid diagnosis can significantly improve patient outcomes. In this case study, we explore the role of the Deep Resolve Swift Brain MRI protocol in facilitating rapid stroke diagnosis and treatment.
A 39-Year-Old Patient's Journey
A 39-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension and ischemic cardiomyopathy presented to the emergency department after experiencing a sudden collapse at home. The patient was transferred to Can Tho S.I.S. International General Hospital for further assessment and management. Upon arrival, a team of specialists, including cardiologists and intensivists, evaluated the patient and ordered additional tests and imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of the collapse.
Neuroimaging Findings
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) using the Deep Resolve Swift Brain protocol revealed scattered acute cerebral infarctions within the left fronto-temporal region, with restricted diffusion evident on the DWI sequence and a corresponding low signal on the ADC map.
A case of acute stroke with Deep Resolve Swift Brain protocol.
The protocol consists of five contrasts: T1, T2, T2*, T2 dark-fluid, and diffusion. T1 is based on a fast GRE imaging sequence, the remaining contrasts are multi-shot EPI-based. Multi-shot EPI together with a new static field correction minimizes geometric distortions that are intrinsic to EPI imaging. Within this multi-shot EPI approach, T2 and T2* are acquired simultaneously by a Siemens Healthineers exclusive EPI-implementation, further accelerating this protocol. Multi-shot EPI-based T2 dark-fluid reduces imaging times substantially compared to standard TSE imaging and offers true FLAIR contrast due to magnetization transfer preparation. Highest image quality is ensured by a Deep Learning Reconstruction to push the limits of parallel imaging acceleration. The unique combination of multi-shot EPI imaging and Deep Learning Reconstruction enables net scan times of less than two minutes. The total table time including prescans and adjustments can be less than five minutes with this protocol.
Image Courtesy from Can Tho S.I.S International General Hospital
Image Courtesy from Can Tho S.I.S International General Hospital
Additionally, a 3D Time-of-Flight Angiography with Compressed Sensing technology revealed significant narrowing (stenosis) of the left middle cerebral artery, including stenosis at the beginning of its M1 segment and within the M2 branch segment.
Treatment and Outcome
The patient received conservative medical treatment, and no interventional procedures were performed. The rapid diagnosis facilitated by the Deep Resolve Swift Brain protocol enabled swift treatment decisions, which significantly impacted the patient's outcome.
The Deep Resolve Swift Brain Protocol: A Game-Changer in Stroke Diagnosis
Deep Resolve Swift Brain is an ultra-fast brain protocol leveraging the fastest available imaging sequence, EPI, together with a Deep Learning Reconstruction to push acceleration to the edge. It utilizes a combination of techniques, including EPI imaging, Multi-shot EPI, and Deep Resolve, an AI-powered image reconstruction technology. This protocol prioritizes speed in stroke assessment, allowing for swift diagnosis and treatment decisions.
"By using SWIFT brain protocol, the scanning time is much faster, which is very critical in stroke diagnosis. Image quality is considered basically sufficient to evaluate patients with acute stroke."
Advantages of MRI in Stroke Management
MRI offers significant advantages in stroke management, including:
- High sensitivity to detect subtle changes in brain tissue ¹
- Specificity to differentiate between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes ¹
- Non-invasive procedure with no radiation risks ¹
- Advanced techniques like DWI, perfusion imaging, and MR angiography offer exceptional detail about blood flow and tissue health ¹
Conclusion
This case study demonstrates the value of the Deep Resolve Swift Brain MRI protocol in rapid stroke diagnosis and treatment. MRI is an invaluable tool in stroke management, offering superior detail and insights compared to CT. Advancements like faster protocols are expanding its role in acute stroke care, enabling rapid diagnosis and informed treatment decisions. By prioritizing speed and accuracy in stroke diagnosis, we can significantly improve patient outcomes and save lives.
Technological Advancements
The 3 Tesla MAGNETOM Lumina MRI machine is a marvel of engineering, capable of performing a wide range of advanced diagnostic procedures. It features a powerful magnetic field that generates high-resolution images, enabling physicians to visualize anatomical structures and abnormalities with unprecedented clarity.
One of the key benefits of the 3 Tesla MRI machine is its ability to perform full-body scanning. This is particularly valuable for detecting tumors at an early stage, when they are often small and difficult to identify using traditional imaging techniques. The machine's advanced capabilities also allow for clear cerebral angiography without the need for contrast injection, reducing the risk of complications associated with contrast agents.
Another remarkable feature of the 3 Tesla MRI machine is its integration of artificial intelligence (AI). AI algorithms are used to streamline the operation of the machine, reducing the time required for scanning and image reconstruction. This not only enhances patient comfort but also improves the efficiency of the diagnostic process.
Can Tho S.I.S International General Hospital is a stroke hospital, and as such, a significant portion of the exams performed on the 3 Tesla MRI machine are brain scans and stroke screenings. The machine's advanced capabilities allow physicians to accurately diagnose and assess stroke, enabling timely intervention and improving patient outcomes.
Overall, the installation of the 3 Tesla MAGNETOM Lumina MRI machine at Can Tho S.I.S International General Hospital represents a major advancement in healthcare technology. The machine's capabilities enhance the hospital's ability to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to patients with stroke and other medical conditions.
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