Brain STimulation for Arm Recovery After Stroke 2

Launched by JORD VINK · Feb 9, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Brain STimulation for Arm Recovery After Stroke 2 trial is studying a treatment called continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) to help improve arm function in people who have had a stroke. Every year, many individuals experience strokes, and a significant number struggle with using their arms afterward. This trial aims to see how effective cTBS is for boosting upper limb recovery in stroke patients who are receiving rehabilitation. To be eligible, participants must be 18 years or older, have had their first stroke, and have weakness in one arm that can be treated within three weeks of the stroke.

Participants in the trial will receive 10 daily cTBS sessions over two weeks, along with regular physical therapy for their affected arm. The main goal is to measure improvements in arm function after 90 days and one year, using specific tests. This study is important because it could lead to better recovery options for stroke survivors, helping them regain the ability to perform daily activities more independently. It's worth noting that the trial is not yet recruiting participants, so those interested will need to wait for further announcements.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age, 18 years or older
• • First-ever unilateral ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage in a cerebral hemisphere or the brainstem;
• • Unilateral upper limb paresis with a motricity index between 9 and 99;
• • Possibility to start cTBS treatment within 21 days after stroke onset;
• • Signed informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Upper limb paresis prior to stroke onset;
• • Absolute contra-indication to TMS
• • Magnetic sensitive objects implanted in the head or neck area (e.g. cochlear implants, implanted neurostimulator, pacemaker or defibrillator, metal splinters, metal fragments or metal clips);
• • History of epilepsy;
• • Other contra-indications that may potentially be harmful as determined by the treating rehabilitation physician;
• • Severe impairments that can impede study participation as determined by the treating rehabilitation physician (i.e. extreme fatigue, severe communication deficits);
• • Life expectancy shorter than one year.