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Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in poststroke cognitive impairment: protocol for a randomised
Zhen-Dong Li1, Hang-Jian Qiu2, Xiao-Qian Wang2
1Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.
BMJ Open
|October 5, 2022
Summary
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (TAVNS) shows promise for improving cognitive function in stroke survivors. This study will assess TAVNS effectiveness and mechanisms for poststroke cognitive impairment, aiding rehabilitation and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Poststroke cognitive impairment is a common sequela affecting 17.6%-83% of survivors.
- Cognitive decline significantly hinders stroke recovery, daily activities, and overall quality of life.
- There is an urgent need for effective interventions to improve cognitive function in stroke patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (TAVNS) in improving poststroke cognitive function.
- To explore the potential underlying mechanisms through which TAVNS may enhance cognition.
- To provide a non-invasive, safe, and cost-effective treatment option for poststroke cognitive impairment.
Main Methods:
- A single-centre, randomized controlled trial with 88 participants allocated to TAVNS or sham groups.
- An 8-week intervention period with twice-daily 30-minute sessions, 5 days per week.
- Assessment of cognitive function, daily living activities, quality of life, and serum oxidative stress at baseline, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks.
Main Results:
- Primary outcomes will measure changes in cognitive function scores.
- Secondary outcomes include changes in activities of daily living, quality of life, and serum oxidative stress markers.
- Data analysis will determine the efficacy of TAVNS compared to the sham group.
Conclusions:
- This study aims to establish TAVNS as a viable treatment for poststroke cognitive impairment.
- Findings will contribute to understanding TAVNS's role in neurorehabilitation and cognitive recovery.
- Successful outcomes could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies and enhanced quality of life for stroke survivors.
