The aim of the present study was to evaluated the neural effect of music on the cerebral activation in unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and minimally conscious state (MCS) by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Background: Sensory stimulations were used widely to evaluate the preserved cerebral functions for these patients with disorders of consciousness. Among these, the most alerting or common stimuli are probably familiar voice and music.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluated the neural effect of music on the cerebral activation in unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and minimally conscious state (MCS) by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Methods: Eleven severely brain-damaged patients (6 UWS and 5 MCS) were assessed by functional magnetic resonance imaging while they were exposed under the condition of their personal music. To examine the prognostic value of these patients, longitudinal behavioral assessments were repeatedly conducted by means of the CRS-R after fMRI acquisition.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age ≥ 18 years old;
• no administration of neuromuscular blockers or sedation within the 24 hours of enrolment;
• brain damage with eye opening (indicating wakefulness and rest cycles)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Coma;
• neurodegenerative disease;
• psychiatric or neurologic illness;
• with intracranial metal or other body metal.

patients with disorders of consciousness