Combined diffusion-weighted and perfusion-weighted flow heterogeneity magnetic resonance imaging in acute stroke

The heterogeneity of microvascular flows is known to be an important determinant of the efficacy of oxygen delivery to tissue. Studies in animals have demonstrated decreased flow heterogeneity (FH) in states of decreased perfusion pressure. The purpose of the present study was to assess microvascular FH changes in acute stroke with use of a novel perfusion-weighted MRI technique and to evaluate the ability of combined diffusion-weighted MRI and FH measurements to predict final infarct size. Cerebral blood flow, FH, and plasma mean transit time (MTT) were measured in 11 patients who presented with acute (