Perfusion tomography is an advanced examination used alongside standard computed tomography, which has developed significantly in recent years, offering new possibilities in the diagnosis of ischaemic lesions in various organs. This method allows acute ischaemic foci to be identified at a very early stage, which is possible thanks to the use of state-of-the-art imaging techniques.

How CT perfusion works

CT perfusion uses an intravenously administered contrast agent, which diffuses into the blood vessels of the organ examined. Subsequently, a series of rapid CT scans taken at short intervals makes it possible to track the distribution of the contrast agent in the tissues, which allows blood flow to be assessed and areas with impaired perfusion to be detected.

This diagnostics is made possible by spiral scanners with the CINE option, which enable dynamic examinations with multiple scans at the same level. In this way, it is possible to accurately monitor perfusion (blood flow in capillaries), which is crucial in diagnosing a variety of pathological conditions, including strokes, tumours and inflammatory processes.

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CT perfusion applications

Most commonly, CT perfusion is used in the diagnosis of brain diseases, primarily strokes, where it is crucial to quickly identify ischaemic areas. This examination allows treatment to be optimised, for instance, by quickly undertaking thrombolytic therapy to restore normal blood flow in the brain.

In addition to neurology, CT perfusion is also used in oncology, where it allows assessment of the blood supply and nature of tumours, which may be important in planning treatment, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Perfusion examinations are also used in cardiology to assess myocardial blood flow, which is important for diagnosing ischaemic heart disease.

CT perfusion – what else can be examined?

CT perfusion can be used to examine various organs, each with individual indications for this form of diagnosis. In addition to the brain, heart and abdominal organs such as the liver and kidneys, it is also used in the evaluation of lung perfusion in order to diagnose diseases such as pulmonary embolism or cancerous lesions within lungs. CT perfusion allows accurate assessment of blood supply and tissue perfusion, which is crucial in treatment planning, evaluating treatment effectiveness and early detection of problems with blood flow in tissues and organs.

Indications for CT perfusion

CT perfusion is particularly indicated in cases where diseases and conditions that affect blood flow in tissues are suspected. Major indications include:

• Strokes – CT perfusion enables rapid identification of brain areas affected by ischaemia and assessment of brain tissue that can be potentially salvaged by appropriate intervention.
• Tumours – CT perfusion helps assess the blood supply to tumours, which is crucial in differentiating between benign and malignant tumors and in monitoring the effects of cancer treatment.
• Heart diseases – in cardiology, CT perfusion can be used to assess myocardial blood flow, which is important in diagnosing ischaemic heart disease.
• Vascular diseases – CT perfusion can be used for diagnosing conditions such as aneurysms or vascular stenosis that may affect organ perfusion.

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What can CT perfusion detect?

CT perfusion can detect any abnormalities in tissue blood flow, which may indicate various diseases and conditions, such as:

• ischaemic or necrotic brain tissue following a stroke;
• tumours and their characteristics, including metabolic activity, which helps differentiate between benign and malignant tumours;
• assessment of myocardial blood flow, which is important in the diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease;
• assessment of blood vessel condition, including the presence of aneurysms or stenosis.

Preparation for the examination and its course

Before a CT perfusion scan, the patient should be instructed to remain motionless during the examination to ensure the highest image quality. Depending on the area examined, the patient may be asked to remain fasting for several hours before the examination. It is also necessary to remove any metal objects that may interfere with CT images.

During the examination, after the patient has been placed on the CT table, a contrast agent is administered intravenously. Subsequently, rapid CT scans are performed and analysed by dedicated software to assess tissue perfusion.

Is CT perfusion safe?

CT perfusion is generally a safe examination but like any procedure involving X-rays, it carries a small risk associated with radiation exposure. In addition, in some patients, the administration of a contrast agent can cause allergic reactions, so it is important to inform medical personnel prior to the examination of any allergies, especially to iodine, as well as any previous allergic reactions to contrast administration.

Contraindications to CT perfusion

Despite its many advantages, there are some contraindications to CT perfusion that should be taken into account. These include primarily:

• Renal failure – since the contrast agent is filtered through the kidneys, patients with renal failure may be at risk of a deterioration in kidney function.
• Allergy to the contrast agent – patients with allergies to iodine or other ingredients of the contrast agent may be at risk of an allergic reaction.
• Pregnancy – due to the fact that it involves radiation exposure, CT perfusion is generally contraindicated in pregnant women unless the benefits of the scan outweigh the potential risks to the foetus.

CT tomography is a valuable diagnostic method enabling blood flow in organs and tissues to be accurately assessed. Thanks to its ability to detect changes in perfusion, the examination has applications in the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions, including strokes, cancer and heart disease.

However, like any medical test, CT perfusion requires careful consideration of potential benefits and risks, especially in patients with contraindications. Thanks to the innovative solutions they incorporate, state-of-the-art UIH CT scanners guarantee extremely accurate results with very low radiation doses, making the examination faster and safer as a result.

*ATTENTION! The information contained in this article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Each case should be evaluated individually by a doctor. Consult with him or her before making any health decisions.

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