Effect of Individualized Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in Patients With Disorder of Consciousness

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of individualized repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for patients with Disorder of Consciousness (DOC), a condition involving severe brain injury that results in impaired arousal and cognition. This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled crossover trial aims to understand how rTMS may help improve consciousness rehabilitation by targeting specific brain areas based on each patient's MRI and clinical scores. The study will also explore the neural changes associated with rTMS using high-density EEG recordings. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive both active and sham rTMS treatments in a crossover design, with 20 sessions total: 10 sessions of active rTMS and 10 sessions of sham stimulation separated by a 10-day washout period. Active rTMS involves 10 Hz stimulation over personalized brain targets for 20 minutes daily, while sham stimulation uses a coil that mimics the experience without delivering magnetic pulses. This approach allows comparison of the effects of real versus sham stimulation on patients' recovery. During the study, participants will undergo baseline and post-treatment assessments using the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) to measure behavioral responses. Resting-state EEG will also be recorded to evaluate brain activity changes. The study involves careful monitoring of participants' clinical status and vital signs, with family consent required. The total duration includes active and sham treatment periods with washout, providing detailed insight into the role of rTMS in DOC rehabilitation.

Effects of Individualized rTMS in DOC Patients