Study of Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation to Improve Cognitive Function in Adults with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating cerebral small vessel diseases CSVD, which damage small brain vessels and can cause serious, lasting cognitive problems. This study aims to explore the feasibility, safety, and effects of intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation iTBS on cognitive impairment caused by CSVD. Current treatments for vascular cognitive impairment VCI are limited, so this trial evaluates a new noninvasive brain stimulation method guided by personalized brain mapping. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either active iTBS or sham iTBS treatment over three weeks. The active iTBS involves stimulating the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex with specific pulse patterns multiple times per day, while the sham group receives a similar procedure without real stimulation. Both groups continue with standard treatment and management throughout. Follow-up assessments occur at baseline, around 15 days, and 90 days after the intervention. During the study, participants undergo cognitive tests including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale to measure changes in thinking abilities. Other assessments include memory, verbal fluency, anxiety, depression, sleep quality, physical performance, and walking tests. Researchers monitor outcomes at specified intervals to evaluate the safety and effects of iTBS on cognitive function in CSVD patients. The study lasts about three months per participant with face-to-face visits for evaluation.

Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation on Cognitive Impairment of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease