Resting-state functional MRI in pediatric epilepsy surgery.

Resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) identifies resting-state networks (RSN) in the human brain by analyzing the connectivity of anatomically remote neuronal populations with synchronous low-frequency fluctuation in blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal. Network analysis has informed the understanding of functional brain organization and is beginning to reveal the impact that neurological disorders such as epilepsy may have on the developing cerebral cortex. Among children undergoing epilepsy surgery, mapping the brain networks supporting language, sensorimotor and visual function is a critical part of the preoperative evaluation. However, task-based functional mapping techniques are particularly difficult in immature patients and those with severe impairment. Functional mapping of RSN is a promising tool that may help circumvent the challenges of adequate cooperation and limited abilities of developmentally disabled children to perform age-appropriate functions. We discuss the current methodology of rs-fMRI in the pediatric population, review the literature of rs-fMRI in pediatric epilepsy and present our experience of using rs-fMRI for functional network mapping in children undergoing epilepsy surgery.