Evaluation of skeletal muscle perfusion in a canine hind limb ischemia model using CT perfusion imaging

PURPOSE We aimed to evaluate skeletal muscle per fusion in a canine hind limb ischemia model using computed tomography (CT) perfusion imaging. METHODS Twelve beagles underwent embolization at the branch of the left deep femoral artery. The right hind limbs were used as controls. CT per fusion imaging was performed immediately after embolization. The per fusion parameters of the regions of interest (ROI), including blood volume (BV), blood flow (BF), mean transit time (MTT) and permeability (PMB), were obtained in both the lateral and posterior hind limb muscle groups. RESULTS After embolization, the BV, BF, and PMB values in the lateral muscles of the left hind limbs were significantly lower than those in the right hind limbs (P > 0.05), and the MIT was significantly prolonged (P > 0.05).The values for BV, BF, MTT, and PMB in the posterior muscles of the left hind limbs were not significantly different from those in the right hind limbs (P > 0.05). The values for BV, BF, and PMB in the lateral muscles of the left hind limbs were significantly lower than those in the posterior muscles of the left hind limbs (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION CT perfusion imaging could be used valuate skeletal muscle perfusion in a canine model which may have clinical relevance in lower limb ischemia and vascular reconstruction.