High-frequency rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on chronic and provoked pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AbstractBackground High-frequency rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has demonstrated mixed effects on chronic and provoked pain. Objectives/Methods In this study, a meta-analysis was conducted to characterise potential analgesic of high-frequency DLPFC both Results A total 626 studies were identified in systematic search. Twenty-six eligible included for quantitative review, among which 17 modulated pain remaining investigated influence The left side uniformly targeted studies. While our data no overall effect TMS across conditions, there significant short-term analgesia neuropathic conditions only (SMD = −0.87). terms long-lasting analgesia, an reduction midterm −0.53, 24.6 days average) long term −0.63, 3 months post stimulation, although these not observed within specific conditions. Surprisingly, number sessions have impact analgesia. analysis pain, also indicated following HF-rTMS −0.73). Importantly, we publication bias but Conclusions Overall, findings support that HF-DLPFC stimulation is able induce response These results highlight DLPFC-rTMS management certain future directions are discussed enhance long-term effects.