Abstract #4603

Feasibility of a cued deep breathing task to map cerebrovascular reactivity in healthy and clinical pediatric cohorts

Kristina Zvolanek^1,2, Rachael Stickland¹, and Molly Bright^1,2

¹Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States, ²Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States

Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) mapping with MRI is emerging as a useful metric of vascular health. Tracking natural fluctuations in CO₂ (a vasodilator) during a resting state fMRI scan has been proposed as a method to map CVR, but it is uncertain whether this method is reliable. We propose adding a two-minute breathing challenge prior to a resting state acquisition to transiently reduce CO₂ levels. Here, we tested the feasibility of this method in a small pediatric cohort. The breathing challenge produced more robust CVR maps in both controls and children with cerebral palsy compared to resting state data alone.

How to access this content:

For one year after publication, abstracts and videos are only open to registrants of this annual meeting. Registrants should use their existing login information. Non-registrant access can be purchased via the ISMRM E-Library.

After one year, current ISMRM & ISMRT members get free access to both the abstracts and videos. Non-members and non-registrants must purchase access via the ISMRM E-Library.

After two years, the meeting proceedings (abstracts) are opened to the public and require no login information. Videos remain behind password for access by members, registrants and E-Library customers.

Click here for more information on becoming a member.