Computational Model of Direct Injection Into the Spinal Cord Using in Vivo Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Local infusion, i.e., convection-enhanced delivery (CED), is increasingly being considered as a means to deliver therapeutic agents to nervous tissues. These infusion techniques bypass the blood-brain barrier and overcome problems associated with slow diffusion [1, 2]. Predictive models of extracellular fluid flow and transport during and following CED would be useful in treatment optimization and planning. To account for large infusion volumes, such infusion models should incorporate tissue boundaries and anisotropic tissue properties.