Functional neural mechanisms and underlying structural changes are associated with treatment efficacy in amblyopia

Motivation: Elucidating the mechanisms underlying treatment response in amblyopia patients is essential for the development of more efficacious and individualized therapeutic approaches. Goal(s): The utilization of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion imaging in predicting treatment response among patients with amblyopia. Approach: We utilized diffusion and resting-state fMRI methodologies in pre- and post-treatment assessments for amblyopic patients to evaluate functional and structural changes. Results: The efficacy of occlusion therapy was indicative of functional homogeneity in ROI connectivity analysis, and changes within the fractional anisotropy were complementary to underlying functional connectivity. Impact: By integrating imaging parameters and identifying predictive factors for treatment response, it is possible to develop more efficacious and individualized treatment strategies for patients with amblyopia. The functional-structural correlates observed in the study suggest treatment response efficacy.