The value of NODDI in detecting the changes of brain microstructure in rabbit models with early cerebral ischemia

Motivation: It is currently unclear whether neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) can reflect the microstructure in early cerebral hypoperfusion. Goal(s): Therefore, this study aims to detect the cerebral microstructure using NODDI in rabbits’ cerebral ischemia model. Approach: The orientation dispersion index (ODI) and intracellular volume fraction (Vic) were calculated for comparing among groups, including pre-operative and post-operative of rabbit models, and control group. Results: The results showed that Vic of bilateral cerebral hemispheres in post-operative state was higher than that of pre-operative and control groups (all P < 0.05). NODDI could be used to reflect the mild injury in early cerebral ischemia. Impact: Early recognition of injury in brain tissue microstructure in patients with cerebral ischemia is helpful to guide clinical treatment, and NODDI will be able to identify early brain injury.