When there appears to be some problem with the central nervous system, there a number of safe, comprehensive testing devices available. Information regarding the anatomical structures within the brain, the vascular supply and cerebral spinal fluid spaces are invaluable when evaluating a neurological problem such as CEREBRAL PALSY. They include:
COMPUTERIZED AXIAL TOMOGRAPHY. The CAT scan arrived in the late 1960’s and rapidly became the pivotal imaging technology for evaluation of the central nervous system. The CAT scan is widely available and is a test that can be performed quickly. It is not as affected by motion of the patient. It is a form of X-ray, only more sophisticated. In conventional X-ray, radiation is passed through tissue; the intensity of the exiting radiation is measured by film sensitive to the radiation. This 'picture' can then be interpreted by the trained radiologist to identify abnormality. CAT scan technology allows the radiation to pass successively through tissue from multiple directions at the same time. The computer then integrates the information and constructs a cross section image of the area studied. Contrast material may or may not be used to accentuate the detection of the exiting radiation.
ULTRASOUND. The ultrasound unit employs a transducer that converts electrical energy into sound energy. Similar to sonar, the device is based on the principle that as sound is reflected off an object, the frequency of the sound is altered. By measuring the change in the frequency of the sound reflected, a 'sonic picture' is created of the object studied. Ultrasound is used to study various body organs. It is particularly useful in the evaluation of Stroke and other diseases involving blood flow.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI). When first introduced, the unit was referred to as a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imager. The nuclear was dropped because unlike CAT scanning, no radiation is employed by the MRI. Rather the area to be studied is bathed in a strong magnetic field. Each cell has naturally occurring isotopes (atoms) that are effected by the field. When on, the cell energy level is increased. When the field is turned off, the tissue returns to normal. By applying various gradients of magnetic fields a clear almost photograph image is created by the computer. The MRI is the imaging study of choice in almost all neurological disease. The major disadvantage to MRI is that it is very sensitive to movement, takes longer then a CAT to perform and requires that the patient is cooperative. Today, CAT and MRI are often used to complement each other and provide valuable data for the evaluation of neurological disorders.
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