Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Prevent Cognitive Issues After Surgery in Older Adults

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to prevent Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) in elderly patients undergoing elective surgeries. It focuses on patients over 60 years old who may have mild cognitive impairment, assessing the effectiveness of TMS in improving cognitive outcomes post-surgery. The study employs a randomized approach, comparing active TMS treatment with a sham intervention to evaluate the potential benefits of this non-invasive brain stimulation technique.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients over 60 years old
2. Patients scheduled for elective surgeries of moderate or large scale and candidates for general or spinal anesthesia;
3. Patients who demonstrate possible or probable cognitive impairment based on pre-operative screening using the 10-CS (10-point cognitive screening) tool; - For Non-surgical Control Intervention Group, only the first and third criteria will be applied.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Contraindications for the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (metal implants in the head, history of seizures or epilepsy, brain trauma or surgery, intracranial hypertension, and complications from exposure to magnetic fields);
2. Medical diagnosis of Major Neurocognitive Disorder (any form of dementia, regardless of the stage);
3. Indication for skull surgery;
4. Conditions that interfere with cognitive testing (presence of severe hearing and vision loss, inability to understand Portuguese);
5. Ongoing medication adjustments that affect cortical electrical activity (antidepressants, antipsychotics);
6. Difficulty attending treatment during the stipulated evaluation and follow-up period, whether due to socioeconomic or clinical reasons;
7. Anticipation of surgical scheduling;

Where it's running

• University of Sao Paulo
  São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Deise Ferreira, MSc
• Email: deise.fsilva@hc.fm.usp.br
• Phone: +55 11 98032-0345

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.