Functional MRI for Acute Covert Consciousness: Emerging Data and Implementation Case Series

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Research links disorders of consciousness to brain network biomarkers.
• Limited data exists on the practical application of these biomarkers for patient care.
• Professional societies advocate for using biomarkers to detect covert consciousness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a roadmap for implementing functional MRI (fMRI) in intensive care units (ICUs).
• To address the lack of operational guidance for using brain network biomarkers.
• To assist facilities in initiating services for detecting covert consciousness.

Main Methods:

• A case-based approach reviewing current literature.
• Implementation of fMRI in neonatal, pediatric, and adult ICUs within a local health system.
• Focus on practical aspects and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• Demonstrates the feasibility of fMRI implementation in diverse ICU settings.
• Highlights practical challenges and solutions for acquiring network biomarkers.
• Provides a framework for integrating fMRI into clinical workflows.

Conclusions:

• Functional MRI can be practically implemented in ICUs to assess brain network biomarkers.
• This roadmap can guide other institutions in establishing similar services.
• Detecting covert consciousness through network biomarkers holds potential for guiding patient care.