Electrical stimulation mapping in children.

Electrical stimulation mapping is a longstanding practice that aids in identification and delineation of eloquent cortex. Initially used to expand our understanding of the typical human cortex, it now plays a significant role in mapping cortical function in individuals with atypical structural and functional tissue organization undergoing epilepsy surgery. This review discusses the unique challenges that arise in the functional testing of the immature cortex of a child and the parameters of stimulation that optimize accurate results in conventional open implantation and in stereo-electroencephalography. The prerequisite baseline evaluation and preparation recommended to increase the yield from pediatric stimulation mapping sessions is described, as are ideal approaches to the mapping of the sensory, motor, language, and visual cortices.