title: Role of Diffusion-weighted Imaging in Acute Stroke Management using Low-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Resource-limited Settings.
abstract: A variety of imaging modalities exist for the diagnosis of stroke. Several studies have been carried out to ascertain their contribution to the management of acute stroke and to compare the benefits and limitations of each modality. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has been described as the optimal imaging technique for diagnosing acute ischemic stroke, yet limited evidence is available on the value of DWI in the management of ischemic stroke with low-field magnetic resonance (MR) systems. Although high-field MR imaging (MRI) is desirable for DWI, low-field scanners provide an acceptable clinical compromise which is of importance to developing countries posed with the challenge of limited availability of high-field units. The purpose of this paper was to systematically review the literature on the usefulness of DWI in acute stroke management with low-field MRI scanners and present the experience in Nigeria.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Chinonye K
authors.initials: CK
authors.lastname: Okorie
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Godwin I
authors.initials: GI
authors.lastname: Ogbole
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Mayowa O
authors.initials: MO
authors.lastname: Owolabi
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Olufunmilola
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Ogun
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Abiodun
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Adeyinka
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Adesola
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ogunniyi
keywords: Acute stroke; diffusion-weighted imaging; low-field strength; magnetic resonance imaging