The impact of the number of sessions and stimulation parameters on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation efficacy for post-stroke upper extremity recovery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective

To identify the optimal number of sessions and parameters of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation frequency, stimulation intensity, number of pulses per session/treatment that promotes a greater effect on post-stroke upper extremity function.

Data sources

MEDLINE (PubMed), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Literature, Scientific Electronic Library Online, and Scopus up to November 2024.

Review methods

We conducted a meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with other therapies for post-stroke upper extremity function, assessed risk-of-bias using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale, calculated standard mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and determined parameter cutoff points using a receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

Thirty-five randomized clinical trials involving 897 patients were included. Compared to control groups, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with other therapies improved upper extremity motor function with a higher effect size for: ≥ 15 sessions (SMD 0.72 95% CI, 0.37 to 1.08; p < 0.0001]), > 1 Hz frequencies (0.98 [95% CI, 0.48 to 1.48; p = 0001]), intensities of <100% of resting motor threshold (SMD 0.52 [95% CI, 0.29 to 0.75; p < 0.00001]), ≥ 1000 pulses per session (SMD 0.61 [95% CI, 0.40 to 0.82; p < 0.00001]), and ≥12,000 pulses per treatment (SMD 0.64 [95% CI, 0.36 to 0.93; p < 0.0001]).

Conclusion

To enhance post-stroke upper extremity function, the optimal repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation protocol involves at least 15 sessions, frequencies above 1 Hz, intensities below 100% of resting motor threshold, at least 1000 pulses per session, and 12,000 pulses per treatment.