Brain Imaging 101

Various modalities exist for imaging the brain, its white and gray matter, structures and functions. While a number of tools are available, not all imaging or analyses are created equal. It is essential to ask about and consider:

Quality

The type and quality of traditional CT scans and clinical MRI scans aren’t always sensitive enough to show mild brain injury or abnormality

Sensitivity

Revealing traumatic brain damage, especially from mild TBI, most often requires a sophisticated level of advanced analyses and expertise that a standard MRI can’t provide alone

Objectivity

Collecting superior quality data and analyzing it with quantitative and objective methods are key to objectively quantifying what has changed inside a person’s brain

Is It Mild, Moderate or Severe?

TBI's can require different imaging techniques based on their severity. The mildest brain injuries are the hardest to detect.

Computed Tomography (CT)

CT scan, or computed tomography scan (formerly known as computed axial tomography or CAT scan), is an imaging technique used in radiology for noninvasive detailed images for diagnostic purposes.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures the integrity of the 48 major axonal pathways in the brain connecting the different brain regions, and measures the directional flow of fluid within these tracts.