Epidural Cortical Stimulation as a Treatment for Poststroke Aphasia: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Underlying Neurophysiological Mechanisms

Conclusions. Due to the small number of existing cases in the literature, the strength of the evidence is still low. Two main hypotheses of neurobiological mechanisms have been explored: either using continuous stimulation to modify cortical perilesional inhibition or using intermittent stimulation during the speech and language therapy sessions to explore synaptic plasticity and long-term potentiation or depression. To establish the role of epidural stimulation and the relevant stimulation protocols and parameters, large randomized controlled trials are mandatory. We suggest avenues of investigation.
Source: Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Clinical Research Articles Source Type: research