Abstract:Regional Cerebral Blood Flow by ™Xenon Inhalation

Regional Method• The ""Xenon inhalation method of measuring regional cerebral blood flow was applied in serial studies comprising 100 measurements in 57 cases of acute hemiparesis and hemiplegia presumed due to arterial occlusion. Satisfactory data for analysis were obtained in over 95% of the cases studied. Significant flow reductions in the ischemic hemisphere were demonstrated in the cases with more severe clinical disability. This study demonstrates the feasibility of applying this method for serial regional cerebral blood flow measurements in most cases of acute stroke. The expected clinical usefulness and limitations of the method are discussed.Additional Key Words papaverine hemiplegia arterial occlusion hypertension heparin hemiparesis• If the treatment of acute stroke is to be given a rational basis, and achieve a success comparable with that of myocardial infarction, a system must be developed with the essential capability of continuously monitoring or frequently measuring regional cerebral blood flow over a period of three or more days.The purpose of this paper is to report a preliminary experience with the 18J Xenon inhalation method, and to report the results of a feasibility study of the applicability of this method in often uncooperative acutely ill patients. In undertaking this study, a quantitative evaluation of the method itself was not intended, and new information about the pathophysiology of cerebral infarction was not expected. It will be seen that though the method is logistically formidable, its essential safety can facilitate study of critically ill patients. Provided its quantitative accuracy is confirmed in ongoing studies, some progress in the rational management of acute stroke can be hoped for.