Knowledge of critical functional brain areas can aid the neurosurgeon in operative planning. However, unique challenges are present in attempting to investigate brain function in the pediatric population using fMRI. Task compliance can be a significant limiting factor. In addition, many of the younger patients may require to be sedated or anesthetized for imaging.
In their work, Asim Choudhri MD et al. evaluate cortical activation using passive motion functional MRI in pediatric populations, and find expected cortical activation in the majority of the subjects studied. Read more at: