Brain functional connectivity in children with a mild traumatic brain injury: A scoping review

IntroductionThe occurrence of mild traumatic brain injury(mTBI) is estimated at 0,2-0,3% cases annually. Following a mTBI, some children experience persistent symptoms, and functional connectivity(FC) changes may be implicated. However, characteristics of FC have not been widely described in this population. This scoping review aimed to identify and understand the impacts of mTBI on EEG-measured FC in children, provide an overview of the available literature, detail analysis techniques, and describe gaps in the research.MethodsPubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Embase, ProQuest and CINAHL were searched up to June 25, 2023, with the terms child, mTBI, EEG, FC, and their synonyms. Ten studies were identified.ResultsFive studies reported significant differences between the mTBI group and controls. In addition to group differences, six studies reported significant variation over time. Brain Network Analysis(BNA), utilized in seven studies, was the primary FC analysis recorded. Two of the five studies that reported significant differences following mTBI utilized the BNA. The other three applied alternative analysis methods.DiscussionFC assessment based on EEG can identify some differences in children with mTBI. BNA was more useful in following changes over time. Further research is suggested, considering the limited age range and number of retrieved studies.