Objective

To systematically evaluate the impact of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF-rTMS) on activities of daily living (ADLs) of patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI).

Data sources

Relevant studies published as of November 2022 (English and Chinese) were searched in Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, OVID, China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and SinoMed databases.

Review methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that used HF-rTMS for the treatment of ADLs in patients with PSCI were included in this meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently screened literature, extracted the data, evaluated the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and cross-checked.

Results

Forty-one RCTs involving 2855 patients with PSCI were included. In 30 RCTs, the experimental group received HF-rTMS in addition to the interventions used in the control group. In 11 RCTs, the experimental group received HF-rTMS while the control group received sham-rTMS. Barthel Index (BI), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) were higher in the HF-rTMS group than in the control group, whereas scores of Blessed Behavior Scale was lower in the HF-rTMS group than in the control group. All P < 0.05. In 36 studies, the stimulation sites were on the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).

Conclusion

HF-rTMS can ameliorate ADLs of patients with PSCI and has a better rehabilitation effect on PSCI.