| Description |
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is being evaluated to treat Treatment-Resistant Depression, though it has shown mixed results. We believe that variability within the fiber tracts of the brain may account for these outcome differences. In this study, we attempt to characterize this potential variation. Using data from fourteen healthy subjects collected via the Human Connectome Project, we measured the number of fiber tracts as well as their lengths. Specifically, we focused on fibers associated with Brodmann Area 46, Thalamus, Amygdala, and Anterior Limb of the Internal Capsule. These structures have been implicated to have some effect in modulating depression. Tractography seeds (5000) were placed within the Anterior Limb of the Internal Capsule, and the other three structures were selected as regions of interest. Image reconstruction and tractography was done using DSI Studio. Our results indicate that consider able variation in the number of fiber tracts exists among human brains. Interestingly, our results also indicate that there is not extensive variation in the average fiber tract length. It also appears that all fibers follow roughly the same trajectory, but the density of these pathways vary greatly among the healthy population. A greater fiber density would obviously increase the chances of successful implantation of electrodes within the target region. This helps support the notion that more personalized imaging is necessary to provide better outcomes for a greater number of DBS patients. |
