Magnetic Resonance (MR) Spectroscopy and Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Determining Brain Injury and Subsequent Clinical Outcome in Patients of Moderate Brain Trauma

The purpose of this study is to use magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to assess for traumatic brain injury and determine if there is any correlation of these findings to clinical outcome. MR spectroscopy using 2D-CSI (a multi voxel technique) of the corpus callosum, basal ganglia, lobar white matter and brainstem may reveal areas of injury and quantification of the metabolites from these areas may be used to correlate with imaging findings and clinical evaluation. White matter disruption in these areas is commonly seen after TBI, caused by diffuse axonal injury. It has been implicated in the long term outcomes in these patients, but has been difficult to assess by standard radiologic studies.

By the use of DTI it may be possible to demonstrate damaged white matter tracts which could be helpful in the evaluation of traumatic brain injury. Most TBI subjects have injuries that involved torque to the brain. This results in a shearing injury to the long white matter tracts, which has been hypothesized to be related to cognitive outcome.

Also, to demonstrate that MRS and DTI prove valuable in predicting outcome in patients of moderate brain trauma by conducting progressive studies acutely (within 24 hours) and long term (4-6 weeks). Most patients will most likely be followed clinically for over a year, and, if clinical indicated, farther scanning can be done at a later date.

By comparing fraction anisotropy, ADC values, and metabolic ratios by the use of DTI and MRS in the adult and pediatric populations, may help to assess differences in recovery.

Lastly, a comparison between the two groups in changes in brain metabolism and/or white matter tract disruption/re-connection after TBI with and/or without links to outcome can be done.