Introduction: Venous sinus thrombosis includes the thrombosis of the dural sinuses and deep cerebral venous system. Due to different etymological factors and uncommon clinical states its diagnosis is harder to be stated. Purpose: The purpose of our diploma work is to find out if a non contrast MRI of the venous system diagnostically fullfils the same aspects of a contrast MRI examination. Methods: We used the descriptive method to represent the theoretical part of our diploma work. The data was gathered by studying different literature. The practical part of our work was based on signal intensity measurements done with different velocity parameters. All of the measurements were made at Nevrološka klinika in Ljubljana. Results: The standard deviation of our signal intensity measurements in the venous sinuses gave us the information that the blood flow void of 15cm/s returns the highest imaging quality results. Arteries have the smallest standrad deviation mean while using the 70cm/s velocity parameter, which tells us, that the signal is the most constant while using these imaging settings. By comparing two studies we acknowledge the fact that the Phase Contrast imaging technique is by far the most reliable when we are looking out for thrombotic changes in the cerebral venous system. Discussion and conclusion: Comparing the studies, we can rely on the facts that Phase Contrast ist the most reliable technique to choose, when we are seeking for thrombotic changes in the deep venous system. We must consider the fact that using 3D Phase Contrast technique, makes the measurment of signal intensity much longer than using other techniques with aplicated intravenous contrast. That happens due to longer time repetition parameter, which can make the measurment even to 15 minutes longer. Considering the facts, doctor radiologist usually choose the contrast methods due to time press in our public healthcare system. It would be important to study all the benefits and weaknesses of the technique and include it more in the public healthcare system. Applicated intravenous contrast is currently the method of choice, but it does damage to the body, especially kidneys. On the ground of our theoretical statements and practical measurements, the Phase Contrast imaging technique should represent the primary method for diagnosing patients with a clinical image of venous sinus thrombosis that suffer from alergies connected to applicated i.v. contrast. The results show increased use of these methods, but they are not used as frequently as wished for.
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