Dynamic Imaging of Blood Coagulation Within the Hematoma of Patients With Acute Hemorrhagic Stroke.

Background: The dynamics of blood clot (combination of Hb [hemoglobin], fibrin, and a higher concentration of aggregated red blood cells) formation within the hematoma of an intracerebral hemorrhage is not well understood. A quantitative neuroimaging method of localized coagulated blood volume/distribution within the hematoma might improve clinical decision-making.

Methods: The deoxyhemoglobin of aggregated red blood cells within extravasated blood exhibits a higher magnetic susceptibility due to unpaired heme iron electrons.