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What is Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging (a CSF flow MRI)?

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This is a video scan that is able to show improper cerebrospinal fluid flow resulting from issues such as structural interference or brain inflammation. Dr. Raymond Damadian (inventor of the original MRI) teamed with Dr. Scott Rosa in utilizing the FONAR UPRIGHT® Multi-Position™ MRI” to formulate a treatment protocol that involves the Atlas Orthogonal (AO) instrument.

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Why are we pursuing this study? 

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There are several hypnic jerking patients who have had success with the use of the prescription medication Diamox/Acetazolamide. The Driscoll Theory (see “Indications for Diamox” blog entry) offers an explanation, attributing a transient “low level” of high-pressure elevation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. If one has cervical spinal subluxations/dislocations, this can provide a “corking” shut of the brain fluid’s into and out of the head. Stated more plainly, fluid can get trapped in different areas of the brain, affecting brain structures and the cleaning of the fluid (critical to getting proper sleep). A CSF Flow MRI has shown decreased fluid velocity and inadequate drainage in folks with hypnic jerking.

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Who and what is involved?

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Dr. Scott Bender is a research-based chiropractor in Stamford, Connecticut. He has been teaming with Dr. Scott Rosa (mentioned above) to measure the effects that the atlas orthogonal chiropractic approach has upon various conditions. Among other things, the CSF MRI can show decreased fluid velocity as compared to the normal brain. Study participation would entail a trip to New York (Long Island’s Stand Up MRI) lab. You would first be meeting with one of the doctors to participate in an initial intake. Following this, you would have the CSF Flow MRI along with a cervical junction (soft tissue) MRI. You would then be given an atlas orthogonal treatment based on your scan results. Finally, you would be receiving a post treatment CSF Flow MRI. The scanning and treatment process would take between two to three hours of your time. 

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Is there a fee to participate?

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You can check with your insurance company to see if they cover the soft tissue neck MRI (procedure code 70540). If not, the out of pocket total for that scan is $325. The CSF flow MRI is not covered yet by any insurances. The cost for both pre and post CSF flow MRI would be $350. There will also be a one time consultation fee from Dr. Bender’s office. 

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What can we learn? 

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We stand to gain more insight into what might be contributing toward the brainstem (motor issue aspect of hypnic jerking). Dr. Bender would be looking for shared patterns from our MRI’s. On an individual level, this research would inform you of any details involving fluid not moving properly, being trapped in places where it shouldn’t be, and any resultant brain structures affected.

 

For instance, for some people, fluid can enter the pituitary stalk, flattening the pituitary and affecting hormone production. Finally, taking part in this research would help you to determine if you are appropriate for this treatment (which you can locate locally). 

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