[HTML][HTML] “Connectomic surgery”: diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography as a targeting modality for surgical modulation of neural networks

JM Henderson - Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 2012 - frontiersin.org
Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 2012frontiersin.org
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is being used to treat a growing number of neurological
disorders. Until recently, DBS has been thought to act mainly by suppressing local neuronal
activity, essentially producing a functional lesion. Numerous studies are now demonstrating
that DBS has widespread network effects mediated by white matter pathways. The new
science of connectomics aims to map the connectivity between brain regions in health and
disease. Targeting DBS specifically to pathways which exhibit pathological connectivity …
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is being used to treat a growing number of neurological disorders. Until recently, DBS has been thought to act mainly by suppressing local neuronal activity, essentially producing a functional lesion. Numerous studies are now demonstrating that DBS has widespread network effects mediated by white matter pathways. The new science of connectomics aims to map the connectivity between brain regions in health and disease. Targeting DBS specifically to pathways which exhibit pathological connectivity could greatly expand the possibilities for treating brain diseases. This brief review examines the current state of brain imaging for visualization of these networks and describes how DBS might be used to restore normal connectivity in pathological states.
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