perfusion
Pronunciation: per-FYOO-zhun
The passage of blood through tissue capillary beds, delivering oxygen and nutrients.
Full Definition
Perfusion refers to the delivery of blood through the capillary networks of tissues, providing essential oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste products. In vascular imaging, perfusion assessment involves evaluating tissue blood flow at the microvascular level using techniques such as perfusion CT, MR perfusion, or nuclear medicine studies. Perfusion imaging is particularly important in stroke evaluation, cardiac imaging, and oncology to assess tissue viability, detect ischemia, and evaluate treatment response. Quantitative perfusion parameters include blood flow, blood volume, and transit times.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between large vessel flow and tissue-level perfusion.
In Context
- "CT perfusion imaging demonstrated decreased cerebral perfusion in the left MCA territory." — Stroke protocol imaging report
- "Myocardial perfusion was assessed using stress MRI techniques." — Cardiac imaging report