Internal jugular vein blood flow reflux analysis using ultrasound Doppler technologies and phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging

The study of the Internal Jugular Vein (IJV) hemodynamics has gained particular attention after the definition of Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency syndrome (CCSVI), and the discovery of highly debated possible links between the venous system and some neurological pathologies (Multiple Sclerosis, Cough Headache, Transient Global Amnesia). One of the most studied hemodynamic signs of the IJV blood flow is the presence and extent of the reflux during normal respiratory conditions or forced breathing maneuvers (Valsalva, Müller;s deep inspiration). The present work is related to the analysis of IJV reflux performed using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Phase Contrast (PC) and Ultrasound (US) Doppler techniques. Regarding the US modality, the classic Color Doppler, Pulsed Wave Doppler and the innovative Multigate Quality Doppler Profiles technology will be considered. Comparisons between the results obtained with MRI and US will be discussed to highlight advantages of the proposed MRI and US technologies for IJV reflux presence detection and analysis.