Diffusion Tensor Imaging: A Practical Handbook

This book provides an overview of the practical aspects of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), from understanding the basis of the technique through selection of the right protocols, trouble-shooting data quality, and analyzing DTI data optimally. DTI is a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique for visualizing and quantifying tissue microstructure based on diffusion. The book discusses the theoretical background underlying DTI and advanced techniques based on higher-order models and multi-shell diffusion imaging. It covers the practical implementation of DTI; derivation of information from DTI data; and a range of clinical applications, including neurosurgical planning and the assessment of brain tumors. Its practical utility is enhanced by decision schemes and a fully annotated DTI brain atlas, including color fractional anisotropy maps and 3D tractography reconstructions of major white matter fiber bundles. Featuring contributions from leading specialists in the field of DTI, Diffusion Tensor Imaging: A Practical Handbook is a valuable resource for radiologists, neuroradiologists, MRI technicians and clinicians.

Wim Van Hecke, PhD, is an international expert in MRI analysis and advanced neuroimaging techniques and applications. An academic engineer by training with two Masters degrees in applied biomedical engineering and neuroimaging, and a PhD in diffusion MRI analysis, Dr. Van Hecke presently divides his time between pursuing research in advanced DTI analysis at Antwerp University Hospital and managing the business operations of icoMetrix, a rapidly expanding medical image analysis service that he co-founded to make state-of-the-art image analysis accessible to all.

Louise Emsell, PhD, is a translational neuroimaging expert and educator. Presently based at the University Psychiatry Centre (UPC) and Translational MRI departments at the KU Leuven University Hospital in Belgium, Dr. Emsell has two Masters degrees in Science (Medical Physics/Medicinal Chemistry) and Education, and a PhD in Psychiatry. Her award-winning postdoctoral research combines many advanced neuroimaging techniques, including state-of-the-art diffusion MRI, to study the development and evolution of psychopathology.

Stefan Sunaert, MD, PhD, is a Consultant Neuroradiologist, Professor of Neuroradiology and internationally-renowned expert in all aspects of clinical and academic MR neuroimaging. Presently head of the Translational MRI Department at KU Leuven, and based in the Radiology Department of the KU Leuven University Hospital in Belgium, Professor Sunaert has published widely in the field of Neuroradiology and has received numerous awards for his academic research. Additionally, he is a highly-respected clinician and educator who has organised numerous advanced neuroimaging courses and workshops at conferences across the world.