Abstract
Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can readily be performed in the neonate, although currently studies remain a few years behindthose carried out on adults. DWI relies on the random diffusion of water molecules. As for the adult population, a pulsed gradient spin echo sequence (PGSE) with cardiac gating can be used to exploit the effect of diffusion on image contrast and to determine the apparent diffusion co-efficient (D*) for tissues or fluids. Anisotropic properties caused by the restriction of the movement of water molecules may be demonstrated. In the neonatal brain restricted motion can be detected in both myelinated and unmyelinated white matter tracts. DWI has been used to study changes in global and focal ischaemic injury to the neonatal brain. A decreased D* may be documented after an ischaemic insult followed by a gradual increase. These changes are consistent with animal data but show a slower time course. Intervention following perinatal ischaemic injury must be started within hours. DWI detects early ischaemic injury and may therefore be a useful tool for identifying those infants who could benefit from intervention.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 9 February 2000
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Bydder, G., Rutherford, M. & Cowan, F. Diffusion-weighted imaging in neonates. Child's Nerv Syst 17, 190–194 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003810000280
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003810000280