Brain stimulation in attention deficits after traumatic brain injury: a literature review and feasibility study

Abstract Background After a traumatic brain injury, disturbances in the attentional processes have direct negative effect on functional recovery and return to complex activities. To date, there is no good attention remediation treatment available. The primary objective of this review pilot study provide an overview research evidence evaluate feasibility implementing tDCS protocol improve disorders patients with mild complicated severe subacute TBI, hospitalized inpatient rehabilitation facility. Our secondary extract preliminary data observational information participants’ response treatment. Methods Participants were recruited from consecutive series admitted TBI unit subspecialized regional center. They received 20-min stimulation 3 times week for weeks. A neuropsychological evaluation was performed before after intervention. We collected sociodemographic clinical characteristics as well about satisfaction, tolerability, adverse effects. Results One hundred sixty-four between September 2018 January 2020. fifty-eight excluded, 6 presumed deficits enrolled. None completed intended. No major side effects occurred. Conclusion Non-invasive neurostimulation promising enhance TBI. Implementation fulfill purpose intensive center has its limitations. made recommendations facilitate implementation similar projects future. Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN55243064 . Registered 14 October 2020—retrospectively registered.