Advanced neuroimaging techniques to decipher brain connectivity networks in patients with disorder of consciousness: a narrative review.

Advanced neuroimaging techniques have revolutionized our ability to decode brain networks in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC), offering unprecedented insights into the structural and functional underpinnings of consciousness impairment. This review systematically examines and summarizes the clinical applications of modern neuroimaging methodologies-specifically functional MRI and diffusion MRI- for DoC patients from three key perspectives: (1) pathogenic mechanism and theory evolution, (2) accurate diagnosis and prognosis assessment, and (3) treatment strategy and efficacy evaluation. By integrating network neuroscience with clinical insights, we highlight the transformative role of neuroimaging in unraveling network-level damage, refining clinical assessments, and guiding therapeutic innovations. We further outline the potential applicational challenges associated with leveraging neuroimaging techniques to advance both scientific research on consciousness networks and clinical practice in DoC management, hoping to better address these complex conditions.