Objective: To explore the value of CT perfusion in early diagnosis and management of superacute local cerebral infarction in rhesus monkeys.
Method: Acute local cerebral infarction was induced in the rhesus monkeys during digital subtraction angiography (DSA) by introduction of pale thrombus prepared from autologous blood into the M1 branch of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Plain CT scan and CT perfusion scanning were performed at different time points before and after DSA operation, and the results were analyzed in conjunction with the pathologic changes.
Results: Ischemic lesions were displayed on CT perfusion images, which showed local hypoperfusion, reduced cerebral blood flow and volume, and mean transit time delay in the compromised area. Local hypointense infarct area was identified in plain CT scan 24 h after the DSA operation, and the results were in good agreement with pathological examination during autopsy.
Conclusion: CT perfusion imaging of the brain can accurately capture the cerebral perfusion deficits in acute ischemic stroke before morphologic changes take place, and therefore provides good means for thrombolytic treatment evaluation of stroke.