What can be done to assure patient cooperation and eliminate motion during the Xe/CT CBF scan?
The greatest challenge in obtaining technically adequate imaging is the prevention of head motion. Because movement as small as a few millimeters in any plane can cause significant misregistration, no motion between images can be tolerated during the acquisition of baseline and enhanced scans. Several head immobilization techniques are effective, including a custom head holder that lies directly on the CT table for added stabilization. Additionally, using a vacuum-activated bean bag, which easily molds to the contour of the head aids in further head immobilization. Despite head-immobilization techniques, motion continues to be the most frequent problem in XeCT/CBF studies. Maintaining verbal contact with the patient throughout the study us crucial. Laughing and crying are responses to xenon that patients may be unable to control and often result in head motion. Reassurance may be sufficient to stem these reactions, but sedation also may need to be considred.
The greatest challenge in obtaining technically adequate imaging is the prevention of head motion. Because movement as small as a few millimeters in any plane can cause significant misregistration, no motion between images can be tolerated during the acquisition of baseline and enhanced scans. Several head immobilization techniques are effective, including a custom head holder that lies directly on the CT table for added stabilization. Additionally, using a vacuum-activated bean bag, which easily molds to the contour of the head aids in further head immobilization. Despite head-immobilization techniques, motion continues to be the most frequent problem in XeCT/CBF studies. Maintaining verbal contact with the patient throughout the study us crucial. Laughing and crying are responses to xenon that patients may be unable to control and often result in head motion.
