Franke LM, Gitchel GT, Perera RA, Hadimani RL, Holloway KL, Walker WC. Randomized trial of rTMS in traumatic brain injury: improved subjective neurobehavioral symptoms and increases in EEG delta activity.
Brain Inj 2022;
36:683-692. [PMID:
35143365 DOI:
10.1080/02699052.2022.2033845]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE
While repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown efficacy for cognitive difficulties accompanying depression, it is unknown if it can improve cognition in persons with traumatic brain injury.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Using a sham-controlled crossover design, we tested the capacity of high frequency rTMS of the prefrontal cortex to improve neuropsychological performance in attention, learning and memory, and executive function.
METHODS
Twenty-six participants with cognitive complaints and a history of mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury were randomly assigned to receive first either active or sham 10 Hz stimulation for 20 minutes (1200 pulses) per session for five consecutive days. After a one-week washout, the other condition (active or sham) was applied. Pre- and post-treatment measures included neuropsychological tests, cognitive and emotional symptoms, and EEG.
MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS
Results indicated no effect of treatment on cognitive function. Subjective measures of depression, sleep dysfunction, post-concussive symptoms (PCS), and executive function showed significant improvement with stimulation, retaining improved levels at two-week follow-up. EEG delta power exhibited elevation one week after stimulation cessation.
CONCLUSIONS
While there is no indication that rTMS is beneficial for neuropsychological performance, it may improve PCS and subjective cognitive dysfunction. Long-term alterations in cortical oscillations may underlie the therapeutic effects of rTMS.
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