Functional brain network alterations in neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury: A systematic review.
Tim Ho, Jonas Holle, Katleho Limakatso et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined resting-state functional MRI studies on brain network alterations in neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury. It included eight controlled studies with 220 SCI-NP participants, 41 SCI participants without NP, and 152 healthy controls. The review found evidence of altered connectivity in various brain circuits, but no reproducible biomarkers or validated neuromodulation targets were established.
Key findings
- Altered connectivity was observed in insular, thalamocortical, salience, limbic, sensorimotor, default mode, central executive, and descending modulatory circuits.
- The review included data from 220 SCI-NP participants, 41 SCI participants without NP, and 152 healthy controls.
- Findings varied significantly based on comparator group, cohort characteristics, and analytic methods.
Why it matters
Understanding the brain network alterations associated with neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury can inform future research on neuromodulation strategies. This knowledge may lead to improved pain management approaches for affected patients.