Imaging of Brain Concussion: A Comprehensive Guide

Edited by Drs. Roy Riascos and Eliana E. Bonfante-Mejia, this issue of Neuroimaging Clinics of North America delves into the intricacies of imaging brain concussions. The compilation includes a range of articles that provide insights into the various aspects of traumatic brain injuries, advanced imaging techniques, and the role of imaging in different contexts.

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury

The issue begins with an exploration of traumatic brain injury, encompassing its definition, neurosurgical and orthopedic aspects, neuroimaging, and psychological and psychiatric implications. This foundational knowledge sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the subsequent topics.

Advanced Imaging Techniques for Brain Concussions

Advanced imaging modalities such as multimodality imaging, perfusion-weighted images, and the application of PET and SPECT in brain concussion are discussed in detail. These articles highlight the diagnostic potential of these techniques in accurately assessing brain injuries.

Imaging in Different Contexts

The guide also covers the imaging of chronic concussion, its application in young athletes, and its role in blast injuries. Furthermore, it delves into the conventional CT and MR imaging of brain concussions, providing a comprehensive overview of the imaging spectrum.

Structural and Functional Imaging

Structural imaging, including MRI, susceptibility-weighted imaging, and MR spectroscopy, are discussed alongside functional imaging techniques such as fMRI BOLD and resting state techniques. These sections elucidate the value of these modalities in diagnosing and monitoring brain concussions.

Diffusion Imaging in mTBI

Diffusion-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging in mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) are also explored, shedding light on their utility in detecting subtle changes in the brain.

This issue of Neuroimaging Clinics of North America serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students seeking to enhance their understanding of brain concussion imaging. By presenting a broad range of topics and techniques, it aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in this complex field.