Mobile MRI for Immediate Radiological Acute Cerebral Lesion Evaluation in Stroke

Mobile MRI for Immediate Radiological Acute Cerebral Lesion Evaluation in Stroke: Investigating the Use of a Small Mobile MRI Scanner to Aid Investigation of Stroke

This prospective observational study will evaluate the potential value of mobile MRI in patients with suspected or proven acute stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), undertaking additional imaging in the emergency department, acute stroke unit, or outpatient settings, and comparing diagnostic accuracy, Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesion volume and detection of complications (brain swelling or haemorrhagic transformation). Information on ease of use, tolerability and image quality will also be gathered.

The study will investigate mobile MRI for immediate radiological acute cerebral lesion evaluation in Stroke. The objectives are:

1. Among patients with possible acute minor stroke or TIA, to compare the detection rate of acute DWI lesions on mobile MRI scan with routine imaging, describe number and distribution of lesions, and describe the intervals between mobile MRI and routine diagnostic scan, and time to final clinical diagnosis
2. Among patients with acute stroke of uncertain onset time, to compare the presence of DWI-Fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) mismatch pattern on mobile MRI with CT perfusion (CTP) mismatch.
3. Among patients with confirmed acute ischaemic stroke, to compare the volume of DWI lesion on mobile MRI with the core volume on CTP
4. Among patients with established stroke post-thrombolysis or thrombectomy, to compare the incidence of brain swelling and haemorrhagic transformation on mobile MRI with routine imaging
5. In all groups, to evaluate the tolerability and ease of use of the mobile MRI scanner, and to rate image quality

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or non-pregnant female > or = 18 years of age
• Clinically suspected stroke or transient ischaemic attack, or confirmed clinical diagnosis of stroke or TIA
• Consent of patient or legal representative

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindications to MRI brain scan as per standard MRI checklist for NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde