Presurgical Mapping of the Language Network Using Resting-state Functional Connectivity

Abstract

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (resting-state fMRI) is a tool for investigating the functional networks that arise during the resting state of the brain. Recent advances of the resting-state fMRI analysis suggest its feasibility for evaluating language function. The most common clinical application is for presurgical mapping of cortex for a brain tumor or for resective epilespy surgery. In this article, we review the techniques and presurgical applications of resting-state fMRI analysis for language evaluation, and discuss the use in the clinical setting, focusing on planning for neurosurgery.

Fig. 1

Factor analysis derived from the resting-fMRI intrinsic connectivity shows four significant clusters, each of which represents the visual system (Factor 1), default mode network (Factor 2), attention system (Factor 3) and language network (Factor 4). Used with permission (17)

Fig. 2

The parcellation atlas of individuals show the intra-subject reliability and inter-subject variability of the functional networks. (Courtesy of Hesheng Liu, Ph. D)

Fig.3

ICA-based mapping of the language network, showing the Wernicke and Broca areas consistently with the results of seed-based approach. (Courtesy of Brad Buchbinder, M.D)

Fig. 4

A. Tractography represents the arcuate fasciculus. B. Cortical projection of tractography calculated by the surface-based analysis. Used with permission (29).