Functional MRI in Anesthesia and Resting-State Networks
Functional MRI December 1, 2018 Nasim Mortazavi, Cécile Staquet, Audrey Vanhaudenhuyse et al.
Hypnotic anesthetic agents dose-dependently alter brain resting-state networks (RSNs) that sustain consciousness, with each agent producing distinct, non-uniform effects within a network that likely correspond to the clinical features observed during their use. Observations during anesthesia help link RSNs to specific aspects of consciousness and environmental connectedness, though the precise connection to biochemical targets or sleep-wake regulation remains unclear. PET studies using targeted radiolabeled probes offer insights, and advanced analytical methods like Granger causality may further clarify brain region interactions. The hypnotic state, useful for surgery without general anesthesia, produces specific RSN changes that distinguish it from normal wakefulness and anesthesia.