Graph theoretical structural connectome analysis of the brain in patients with chronic spinal cord injury: preliminary investigation

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-021-00424-3 · Published: June 28, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Neuroplasticity

Simple Explanation

After a spinal cord injury (SCI), the brain undergoes structural and functional changes. This study uses graph theory to map these changes. Graph theory helps to understand how different brain regions connect and reorganize after SCI by analyzing structural connectivity. The study compares brain networks of people with chronic SCI to those without injuries to identify differences in brain structure.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

10 adults: 4 with chronic SCI, 6 uninjured

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
SCI patients showed decreased betweenness centrality in specific brain regions like the left precentral gyrus and right caudal middle frontal gyrus.
2
SCI patients exhibited decreased clustering coefficient in the left transverse temporal gyrus.
3
Increased structural connectivity was observed between temporal lobe structures, sensorimotor, and speech articulation networks in SCI patients.

Research Summary

This study investigates structural connectome alterations in chronic SCI patients using graph theory, revealing differences compared to uninjured individuals. The results indicate decreased betweenness centrality and clustering coefficient in specific brain regions of SCI patients, suggesting altered network organization. Increased structural connectivity was found in SCI patients within temporal lobe structures, sensorimotor, and speech articulation networks, indicating neuroplasticity.

Practical Implications

Diagnostic Tool

Connectome analysis can serve as a diagnostic tool to identify brain changes after SCI.

Prognostic Tool

Connectome analysis can be used as a prognostic tool to predict treatment outcomes.

Treatment Guidance

Connectome analysis can guide clinicians in determining the best treatment course for SCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.
2
Difficulty in discerning whether network changes are a consequence of the injury or variability in drug use, rehabilitation, or pain.
3
Clinical presentations might bias the identification of differences in graph theory metrics.

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