Advanced MRI Scans Help Identify Hidden Disease in Concussions

Peer-Reviewed Publication

Offering patients with concussion a type of brain scan known as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) MRI could help improve care for the 15 million people hospitalised for traumatic brain injury each year, according to a new study by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic's functional neuroimaging program.

Key Findings

The study found that DTI MRI scans can identify hidden damage in the brain that is not visible on traditional MRI scans. This damage can lead to long-term problems such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and headaches.

The study also found that DTI MRI scans can help to predict which patients are at risk for developing these long-term problems. This information can help doctors to make better decisions about treatment and rehabilitation.

Implications for Patient Care

The findings of this study have important implications for the care of patients with concussion. DTI MRI scans can help to identify patients who are at risk for developing long-term problems, and this information can help to guide treatment and rehabilitation.

The study also suggests that DTI MRI scans may be useful for monitoring the recovery of patients with concussion. By tracking changes in the brain over time, doctors can see how well the patient is recovering and make adjustments to treatment as needed.