Integrating Network Neuroscience Into Epilepsy Care: Progress, Barriers, and Next Steps

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Epilepsy Research

Background:

• Drug-resistant epilepsy involves widespread alterations in brain networks.
• Neuroimaging and electrophysiology network analysis techniques have emerged as potential tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the progress of brain network analysis in epilepsy.
• To identify barriers to clinical translation.
• To discuss future directions for integrating these methods into patient care.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on neuroimaging and electrophysiology network analysis in epilepsy.
• Discussion of clinical applications, including medical management and presurgical planning.

Main Results:

• Network analysis techniques show potential to supplement standard epilepsy diagnostics.
• These advanced methods are not yet routinely used in clinical practice or influencing medical decisions.

Conclusions:

• Significant barriers hinder the clinical translation of brain network analysis for epilepsy.
• Facilitating the transition requires addressing these challenges to improve patient outcomes.