Analysis Of Functional Connectivity When Using Complementary Methods Of Treatment In Patients With Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis

Investigation of the mechanisms of neuroplasticity and detection of changes in the connectome in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis is relevant for the development of new preventive, therapeutic strategies and prediction of disease outcomes. Leech therapy (hirudotherapy, leeching) is one of the most well-known and studied methods of complementary medicine, with proven pathogenetic mechanisms, widely and justifiably used in patients with vascular diseases. Patients received a leech therapy course (10 sessions). All patients underwent resting state functional MRI, complaints and neurological status were evaluated before and after the course of leeching. After a leech therapy course, patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis noted a significant improvement in their condition (reduction of headaches, dizziness, noise in the head and ears, optical and vestibular disorders, visual impairment). The connectivity of the main structures of the brain increased, which is an important morphofunctional indicator of improved brain function. The connectome study provides new approaches to understand the integrative brain function in health and disease, and to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.