Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuromodulation Techniques in Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review

Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuromodulation Techniques in Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review

16 February 2024 | Andrea Calderone, Davide Cardile, Antonio Gangemi, Rosaria De Luca, Angelo Quartarone, Francesco Corallo and Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
This scoping review examines the recent literature on neuromodulation techniques used in the rehabilitation of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), are believed to restore altered brain function, leading to improved cognitive and motor functions. The review identifies eight research articles that explore the use of these techniques in TBI rehabilitation. Key findings include: 1. **Cognitive Improvements**: TMS and tDCS have shown potential in improving cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function in TBI patients. 2. **Neural Plasticity**: These techniques can alter neural connections, boost synaptic strength, and modulate neurotransmitters, promoting neuroplasticity. 3. **Combination Therapies**: Combining TMS or tDCS with other treatments, such as computer-based cognitive training, can enhance cognitive outcomes. 4. **Specific Applications**: Techniques like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) have shown promise in treating specific symptoms and improving quality of life in TBI patients. However, the review also highlights limitations, including the heterogeneity of study designs, sample sizes, and the need for more robust evidence to support the efficacy of these techniques. The authors suggest that future research should focus on mapping and monitoring current evidence, developing guidelines for clinical practice, and exploring novel interventions to address the functional consequences of TBI.This scoping review examines the recent literature on neuromodulation techniques used in the rehabilitation of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), are believed to restore altered brain function, leading to improved cognitive and motor functions. The review identifies eight research articles that explore the use of these techniques in TBI rehabilitation. Key findings include: 1. **Cognitive Improvements**: TMS and tDCS have shown potential in improving cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function in TBI patients. 2. **Neural Plasticity**: These techniques can alter neural connections, boost synaptic strength, and modulate neurotransmitters, promoting neuroplasticity. 3. **Combination Therapies**: Combining TMS or tDCS with other treatments, such as computer-based cognitive training, can enhance cognitive outcomes. 4. **Specific Applications**: Techniques like vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) have shown promise in treating specific symptoms and improving quality of life in TBI patients. However, the review also highlights limitations, including the heterogeneity of study designs, sample sizes, and the need for more robust evidence to support the efficacy of these techniques. The authors suggest that future research should focus on mapping and monitoring current evidence, developing guidelines for clinical practice, and exploring novel interventions to address the functional consequences of TBI.
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