http://www.appliedradiology.com RSS Feed on Applied Radiologyhttp://www.appliedradiology.com//Issues/2001/04/Supplements/Diffusion-and-perfusion-weighted-magnetic-resonance-imaging-of-acute-ischemic-stroke.aspxDiffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) are sensitive imaging techniques that have only recently become clinically available for the detection of acute ischemic stroke. DWI is based on the microscopic motion of water molecules (diffusion) and can evaluate the extent and location of ischemic lesions within minutes. PWI evaluates blood flow to the brain parenchyma and can detect microvascular perfusion abnormalities. In combination, these techniques may identify tissue at risk for infarction and may aid in the appropriate selection of patients for thrombolytic therapy. The purpose of this article is to review the basic principles of DWI and PWI and to discuss the application of these techniques for the diagnosis and management of patients with acute ischemic stroke.Wednesday, 16 Jan 2002 23:27:53 GMT