Visualizing Integrative Functioning in the Human Brainstem and Spinal Cord With Spinal Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The review discussed the use of spinal functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study the integrative functioning of the human brainstem and spinal cord, highlighting its potential to provide insights into these complex regions. It emphasized the importance of defining experimental parameters to accurately interpret functional connectivity and noted that spinal fMRI phenotypes were influenced by data acquisition and analysis methods. The review demonstrated spinal cord plasticity in patients with chronic spinal cord injury and explored advanced analysis techniques like multivoxel pattern analysis for understanding pain mechanisms. It also discussed the potential of effective connectivity to estimate causality, despite challenges such as magnetic susceptibility artifacts and spinal cord motion affecting imaging robustness. The authors stressed the need for full disclosure of methods to overcome these obstacles and improve care for individuals with spinal cord diseases or injuries.