Clinical Report: Evaluating the Safety of Ipsilateral High-Frequency rTMS
Overview
This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of ipsilateral high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (IL-HFS) in patients with brain tumors. Results indicate significant improvements in muscle strength without notable adverse events, suggesting IL-HFS may be a safe option for motor rehabilitation post-surgery.
Background
Motor deficits following brain tumor resection can significantly impair patients' quality of life and survival. While contralesional low-frequency stimulation has been explored, the safety and efficacy of ipsilateral high-frequency stimulation remain largely untested in this population. Understanding the potential of IL-HFS could enhance rehabilitation strategies for patients recovering from brain tumor surgeries.
Data Highlights
Group
Patients
Significant Improvement (p-value)
IL-HFS
4
< 0.05
CL-LFS
6
< 0.05
Key Findings
All patients showed significant improvements in myotomal strength (MRC grade).
Strength gains were more pronounced in lower-limb myotomes.
AMPAC scores improved in both IL-HFS and CL-LFS groups.
No seizures or heating effects were reported during the study.
One patient required wound revision, and another experienced transient paraesthesia.
No changes in shunt settings were observed in a patient with ventriculoperitoneal shunts.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest that IL-HFS is a safe intervention in the early postoperative period for patients with brain tumors. Clinicians may consider IL-HFS as a viable option for enhancing motor recovery in this patient population.
Conclusion
IL-HFS appears to be a safe and effective approach for motor rehabilitation following brain tumor resection, warranting further investigation in larger prospective trials.
