MRI derived pulse wave indexes of the middle cerebral arteries

The pulse pressure wave has been used as a marker for cardiovascular health but cannot be measured easily within the brain. We have developed an MRI protocol to image, track, and process intracranial pulse waves of the middle cerebral artery. The protocol allows for the estimation of pulsatility along the MCA and extends the estimation of standard pulse waveform indexes that are normally being used in the periphery to the brain. The reliability and reproducibility of this protocol is being tested on normal subjects and subjects with mild cognitive impairment.