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Published on: May 6, 2016
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Non-invasive brain stimulation for treating visual defects: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Ahmed W Abbas1, Heba Aboeldahab2, Mohamed Abo Zeid3
1Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt. dr.ahmedw1267hh@gmail.com.
Summary
Repetitive transorbital alternating current stimulation (rTACS) shows promise for improving visual field detection accuracy in homonymous hemianopia patients. Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm efficacy across all visual function outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Visual field defects (VFD), including homonymous hemianopia, result from stroke or optic neuropathy.
- Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is an emerging technique for VFD management.
- Repetitive transorbital alternating current stimulation (rTACS) is being investigated for visual rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of rTACS in patients with visual defects, specifically homonymous hemianopia.
- To assess the impact of rTACS on various visual function parameters.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus) up to September 2023.
- Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, data extracted, and analyzed.
- Pooled mean differences were calculated for high-resolution perimetry detection accuracy (HRP DA), fixation accuracy (HRP FA), static automated perimetry foveal threshold (SAP FT), and visual acuity (VA).
Main Results:
- Analysis of 4 RCTs indicated that rTACS significantly improved HRP DA compared to sham stimulation (SMD = 0.35, P = 0.048).
- No significant differences were observed between rTACS and sham groups for HRP FA, SAP FT, and near vision VA.
- Trends suggested potential benefits in mean threshold, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- rTACS demonstrates potential as a therapeutic approach for homonymous hemianopia, notably enhancing HRP DA.
- While some outcomes did not reach statistical significance, the findings support the need for larger RCTs with extended follow-up.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the therapeutic role of rTACS in visual field defect rehabilitation.
