Regional blood flow, capillary permeability, and compartmental volumes: measurement with dynamic CT--initial experience.

Sequential computed tomographic scanning was performed in patients with neck tumors after contrast material administration. For data analysis, a pharmacokinetic two-compartment model was employed that takes into account both capillary blood supply and bidirectional diffusion of the contrast agent across the capillary wall. This approach offers the possibility to quantitatively characterize tissue microcirculation with regional blood flow, capillary permeability, and relative compartmental volumes.