Effects of Combined Use of Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation and Cognitive Training on Poststroke Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Objective: Poststroke cognitive impairment substantially affects patients’ quality of life. This study explored the therapeutic efficacy of intermittent theta burst stimulation combined with cognitive training for poststroke cognitive impairment. Design: The experimental group received intermittent theta burst stimulation and cognitive training, whereas the control group only received cognitive training, both for 6 wks. The outcome measures were the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment, modified Barthel Index, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Results: After therapy, between-group comparisons revealed a substantial difference in the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment scores (P = 0.024). Improvements in visuomotor organization and thinking operations were more noticeable in the experimental group than in the other groups (P = 0.017 and P = 0.044, respectively). After treatment, the resistance index of the experimental group differed from that of the control group; channels 29, 37, and 41 were activated (P < 0.05). The active locations were the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, prefrontal polar cortex, and left Broca’s region. Conclusions: Intermittent theta burst stimulation combined with cognitive training had a superior effect on improving cognitive function and everyday activities compared with cognitive training alone, notably in visuomotor organization and thinking operations. Intermittent theta burst stimulation may enhance cognitive performance by improving network connectivity.