Abstract
Introduction.
Cognitive impairment after stroke has been associated with lower
quality of life and independence in the long run, stressing the need for
methods that target impairment for cognitive rehabilitation. The use of
noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on recovery of language functions
is well documented, yet the effects of on other cognitive domains
remain largely unknown. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review that
evaluates the effects of different stimulation techniques on
domain-specific (long-term) cognitive recovery after stroke.
Methods.
Three databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO) were searched for
articles (in English) on the effects of NIBS on cognitive domains,
published up to January 2018. Results. A total of 40 articles
were included: randomized controlled trials (n = 21), studies with a
crossover design (n = 9), case studies (n = 6), and studies with a mixed
design (n = 4). Most studies tested effects on neglect (n = 25). The
majority of the studies revealed treatment effects on at least 1 time
point poststroke, in at least 1 cognitive domain. Studies varied highly
on the factors time poststroke, number of treatment sessions, and
stimulation protocols. Outcome measures were generally limited to a few
cognitive tests.
Conclusion. Our review suggests that NIBS is
able to alleviate neglect after stroke. However, the results are still
inconclusive and preliminary for the effect of NIBS on other cognitive
domains. A standardized core set of outcome measures of cognition, also
at the level of daily life activities and participation, and
international agreement on treatment protocols, could lead to better
evaluation of the efficacy of NIBS and comparisons between studies.
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