Electrophysiological evaluation of the neuromuscular junction: a brief review / Avaliação eletrofisiológica da junção neuromuscular: breve revisão

Abstract The nerve terminal and muscle membrane compose the neuromuscular junction. After opening the voltage-gated calcium channels, action potentials from the motor axons provoke a cascade for the acetylcholine release from synaptic vesicles to the synaptic cleft, where it binds to its receptor at the muscle membrane for depolarization. Low amplitude compound muscle action potential typically presents in presynaptic disorders, increasing by more than 100% after a 10-second effort in the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome and less in botulism. Needle electromyography may show myopathic motor unit action potentials and morphological instability ("jiggle") due to impulse blocking. Low-frequency repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) is helpful in postsynaptic disorders, such as myasthenia gravis and most congenital myasthenic syndromes, where the number of functioning acetylcholine receptors is reduced. Low-frequency RNS with a decrement >10% is abnormal when comparing the 4th to the first compound muscle action potential amplitude. High-frequency RNS is helpful in presynaptic disorders like Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, botulism, and some rare congenital myasthenic syndromes. The high-frequency RNS releases more calcium, increasing the acetylcholine with a compound muscle action potential increment. Concentric needle records apparent single-fiber action potentials (spikes). A voluntary activation measures the jitter between spikes from two endplates. An electrical activation measures the jitter of one spike (one endplate). The jitter is the most sensitive test for detecting a neuromuscular junction dysfunction. Most neuromuscular junction disorders are responsive to treatment.

Resumo O nervo terminal e a membrana muscular compõem a junção neuromuscular. Após a abertura dos canais de cálcio dependentes de voltagem, os potenciais de ação do axônio motor provocam uma cascata de eventos que libera acetilcolina das vesículas para a fenda sináptica, ligando-se ao receptor na membrana muscular para despolarização. O potencial de ação muscular composto de baixa amplitude ocorre nas desordens pré-sinápticas, aumentando em mais de 100% após esforço de 10 segundos na síndrome miastênica de Lambert-Eaton e menos no botulismo. A eletromiografia pode mostrar potenciais de ação da unidade motora miopáticos e instabilidade morfológica ("jiggle") devido ao bloqueio do impulso. Estimulação nervosa repetitiva (ENR) de baixa frequência é útil nos distúrbios pós-sinápticos, como miastenia gravis e a maioria das síndromes miastênicas congênitas, quando há número reduzido de receptores de acetilcolina funcionantes. ENR de baixa frequência com decremento >10% é anormal comparando-se à amplitude do quarto com o primeiro potencial de ação muscular composto. ENR de alta frequência é útil nas doenças pré-sinápticas, como síndrome miastênica de Lambert-Eaton, botulismo e algumas síndromes miastênicas congênitas raras. ENR de alta frequência libera mais cálcio, aumenta acetilcolina, resultando em incremento do potencial de ação muscular composto. O eletrodo de agulha concêntrico registra potenciais de ação aparente de fibra única (PAAFU). Ativação voluntária mede jitter entre dois PAAFUs (duas junções neuromusculares). Ativação elétrica mede jitter de um PAAFU (uma junção neuromuscular). Jitter é o teste mais sensível para detectar disfunção de junção neuromuscular. A maioria dos distúrbios juncionais é responsiva ao tratamento.

Rehabilitation protocols in neuropathic pain: bibliometric review / Protocolos de reabilitação na dor neuropática: revisão bibliométrica

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Neuropathic pain (NP) affects the afferent somatosensory pathways, generating various symptoms, however, there is difficulty in terms of diagnosis and in the formation of treatment protocols. There is a need to search the current literature for effective resources for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in rehabilitation. The objective of this study was to describe reproducible assessment and treatment approaches capable of reducing NP. CONTENTS: Full articles produced between 2018 and 2022, found in the Pubmed, Scielo, Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were included. Fifteen Boolean descriptors were used, and data were cross-referenced with the words "AND" or "OR". The selected articles went through the Methodi Ordinatio of classification and organization of studies. Eleven articles were selected and used in this review, two from 2018, five from 2020, and three from 2021. Regarding the type of study, five review articles, one case study, and six intervention studies were obtained. Of these 11 studies, only three used quality of life (QoL) indicators. Most studies used combined interventions, and in more than half of the publications transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) was present. The somatosensory rehabilitation method was able to redeem neuropathy through specific techniques. CONCLUSION: The implications of the neuropathic pain treatment in terms of QoL were left in the background by the bibliometric survey carried out. It is suggested that new studies could associate analgesia techniques with rehabilitation methods, including and measuring the effects on the QoL of these patients.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor neuropática (DN) acomete as vias somatossensoriais aferentes, gerando diversos sintomas, entretanto há dificuldades em termos de diagnóstico e na formação de protocolos de tratamento. Há a necessidade de buscar, na literatura atual, recursos eficazes para o tratamento da neuropatia periférica na área da reabilitação. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever abordagens reprodutíveis de avaliação e tratamento capazes de diminuir a DN. CONTEÚDO: Foram incluídos artigos completos produzidos entre os anos de 2018 e 2022, encontrados nos bancos de dados Pubmed, Scielo, Medline, Embase e Cochrane. Foram usados 15 descritores booleanos, e os dados foram cruzados com as palavras "AND" ou "OR". Os artigos passaram pelo Methodi Ordinatio de classificação e organização de estudos. Foram selecionados e utilizados 11 artigos, sendo dois de 2018, cinco de 2020 e três de 2021. Acerca do tipo de estudo, foram obtidos cinco artigos de revisão, um estudo de caso e seis estudos de intervenção. Desses 11 estudos, apenas três utilizaram indicadores de qualidade de vida (QV). A maioria dos estudos utilizou intervenções combinadas, e em mais da metade das publicações a estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua (ETCC) estava presente. O método de reabilitação somatossensorial foi capaz de redimir a neuropatia por meio de técnicas específicas. CONCLUSÃO: As implicações do tratamento da dor neuropática no quesito QV ficaram em segundo plano pelo levantamento bibliométrico realizado. Sugere-se que novos estudos possam associar técnicas de analgesia a métodos de reabilitação, incluindo e mensurando os efeitos sobre a QV desses pacientes.

Neuroestimulación del nervio vago, hipocampal y de núcleos anteriores y centromedianos del tálamo en epilepsia temporal: revisión de la literatura / Neurostimulation of the vagus nerve, hippocampal and anterior and centromedian nuclei of the thalamus in temporal epilepsy: literature review

Introducción: En pacientes con epilepsia del lóbulo temporal refractarios que no son candidatos a cirugía, se debe considerar la estimulación eléctrica cerebral como una opción. Contenido: La estimulación eléctrica cerebral es la administración directa de pulsos eléctricos al tejido nervioso que permite modular un sustrato patológico, interrumpir la manifestación clínica de las crisis y reducir la gravedad de estas. Así, dada la importancia de estos tratamientos para los pacientes con epilepsia del lóbulo temporal refractaria, se hace una revisión de cuatro tipos de estimulación eléctrica. La primera, la del nervio vago, es una buena opción en crisis focales y crisis generalizadas o multifocales. La segunda, la del hipocampo, es más útil en pacientes no candidatos a lobectomía por riesgo de pérdida de memoria, con resonancia magnética normal o sin esclerosis mesial temporal. La tercera, la del núcleo anterior, es pertinente principalmente en pacientes con crisis focales, pero debe realizarse con precaución en pacientes con alto riesgo de cambios cognitivos, como los ancianos, o en los que presentan alteración del estado de ánimo basal, y, por último, la del núcleo centromediano se recomienda para el tratamiento crisis focales en el síndrome de Rasmussen y crisis tónico-clónicas en el síndrome de Lennox-Gastaut. Conclusiones: El interés por la estimulación eléctrica cerebral ha venido aumentando, al igual que las estructuras diana en las cuales se puede aplicar, debido a que es un tratamiento seguro y eficaz en pacientes con epilepsia del lóbulo temporal para controlar las crisis, pues disminuye la morbimortalidad y aumenta la calidad de vida.

Introduction: In patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy who are not candidates for surgery, electrical brain stimulation should be considered as another option. Contents: Electrical brain stimulation is the direct administration of electrical pulses to nerve tissue that modulates a pathological substrate, interrupts the clinical manifestation of seizures, and reduces their severity. Thus, given the importance of these treatments for patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy, four types of electrical stimulation are reviewed. The first, vagus nerve stimulation, is a good option in focal seizures and generalized or multifocal seizures. The second, hippocampal stimulation, is more useful in patients who are not candidates for lobectomy due to the risk of memory loss, with normal MRI or without mesial temporal sclerosis. The third, the anterior nucleus, is mainly in patients with focal seizures, but with caution in patients at high risk of cognitive changes such as the elderly, or in those with baseline mood disturbance and, finally, the centromedian nucleus is recommended for the treatment of focal seizures in Rasmussen's syndrome and tonic-clonic seizures in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Conclusions: the interest in brain electrical stimulation has been increasing as well as the target structures in which it can be applied because it is a safe and effective treatment in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy to control seizures, decreasing morbidity and mortality and increasing quality of life

Interferential Current Electrotherapy is More Effective Thanthan TENS VIF in Cancer Pain Management / Corrente Interferencial é Mais Efetiva para Alívio da Dor Oncológica que a TENS VIF

Cancer diagnosis is increasing rapidly worldwide and pain is a common feature reported by cancer patients. Therapeutical approach on cancer pain is complex where less invasive methods with little side effects have been sought. The aim of this study was to compare transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and interferential current (IC) therapies effects on cancer pain. Double blind study with 81 cancer pain patients. Subjects were set up into two groups: one treated with TENS VIF (n=42) and other with IC (n=39). Age, gender, duration of pain, tumor site and histology, medications, treatments, Karnofsky score and clinical state were evaluated. Pain was measured by EMADOR and McGill scores. Electroanalgesia was performed for 30 minutes, the equipments used were Neurodyn III Ibramed® and Neurovector generation 2000 Ibramed®. Electrodes were placed where there was higher intensity of pain according to what was shown by the patient through EMADOR, and each one got only one electrotherapy session. Pain intensity was significantly reduced in both groups (p<0.001) soon after and until 6th hour post electrotherapy. IC group had better results at 4th, 5th (p<0.001) and 6th hour (p=0.022). McGill score in TENS VIF group was significant until 4th hour and in the IC group was highly significant in all evaluated times (p<0.001). Analgesic effect of TENS VIF and IC electrotherapy was clinically effective, however, IC did cause better results regarding analgesia duration.(AU)

O diagnóstico de câncer está aumentando rapidamente em todo o mundo e a dor é uma característica comum relatada por pacientes com câncer. A abordagem terapêutica da dor oncológica é complexa onde métodos menos invasivos e com poucos efeitos colaterais têm sido buscados. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os efeitos das terapias de estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea (TENS) e corrente interferencial (IC) na dor oncológica. Estudo duplo-cego com 81 pacientes com dor oncológica. Os indivíduos foram divididos em dois grupos: um tratado com TENS VIF (n=42) e outro com IC (n=39). Idade, sexo, duração da dor, local do tumor e histologia, medicamentos, tratamentos, pontuação de Karnofsky e estado clínico foram avaliados. A dor foi mensurada pelos escores EMADOR e McGill. A eletroanalgesia foi realizada por 30 minutos, os equipamentos utilizados foram Neurodyn III Ibramed® e Neurovector geração 2000 Ibramed®. Os eletrodos foram colocados onde havia maior intensidade de dor de acordo com o apresentado pelo paciente através da EMADOR. A intensidade da dor foi significativamente reduzida em ambos os grupos (p<0,001) logo após e até a 6ª hora pós-eletroterapia. O grupo CI teve melhores resultados na 4ª, 5ª (p<0,001) e 6ª hora (p=0,022). O escore de McGill no grupo TENS VIF foi significativo até a 4ª hora e no grupo IC foi altamente significativo em todos os tempos avaliados (p<0,001). O efeito analgésico da TENS VIF e da eletroterapia com IC foi clinicamente eficaz, porém a IC trouxe melhores resultados quanto à duração da analgesia.(AU)

Immediate analgesic effect of interferential and Aussie currents in chronic low back pain: randomized clinical trial / Efeito analgésico imediato das correntes interferencial e Aussie na dor lombar crônica: ensaio clínico randomizado

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Despite the widespread use of mid-frequency currents in reducing pain in chronic low back pain (CLBP), there is still no consensus on the optimal parameters for treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the immediate analgesic effects of interferential (IC) and Aussie (AC) currents in CLBP. METHODS: This is a five-arm double-blind randomized controlled trial. Patients aged between 18 and 60 years with CLBP were randomly divided into 5 groups: CI4kHz/100Hz, CI4kHz/2Hz, CA4kHz/100Hz, CA4kHz/2Hz and placebo (PG). Participants received a single application of Interferential current or Aussie current for 30 min. Main outcome measures were pain intensity by numeric pain scale (NPS), McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ) and pressure pain threshold. The secondary outcomes assessed were: abdominal strength test (AST), lumbar flexion test (modified Schober test), trunk and lower limb mobility (sit and reach test and finger tip test). RESULTS: There was a significant difference in NPS and MPQ groups (with the exception of the affective component) (p<0.05) in IC 4 kHz/100 Hz and IC 4 kHz/2 Hz groups in relation to PG. Regarding secondary outcomes, a difference was found only between IC 4kHz/2Hz and PG in AET. CONCLUSION: Interferential current, regardless of frequency modulation, provided immediate analgesic effect in individuals with CLBP, being superior to the effects of Aussie current.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Apesar da grande utilização das correntes de média frequência na diminuição do quadro álgico na dor lombar crônica (DLC), ainda não existe consenso sobre os parâmetros ideais para tratamento. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os efeitos analgésicos imediatos das correntes interferencial (CI) e Aussie (CA) na DLC. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um ensaio clínico randomizado controlado duplo-cego de cinco braços. Foram selecionados pacientes com idades entre 18 e 60 anos, com DLC, que foram divididos aleatoriamente em 5 grupos: CI4kHz/100Hz, CI4kHz/2Hz, CA4kHz/100Hz, CA4kHz/2Hz e placebo (GP). Os participantes receberam uma única aplicação da corrente Interferencial ou corrente Aussie durante 30 min. As principais medidas de desfechos foram: intensidade da dor pela escala numérica da dor (END), questionário de dor McGill (QDM) e limiar de dor por pressão. Os desfechos secundários avaliados foram: teste de resistência abdominal (TRA), teste de flexão da lombar (teste de Schober modificado), mobilidade de tronco e membros inferiores (teste de sentar e alcançar e teste de distância do terceiro dedo ao solo). RESULTADOS: Houve diferença significativa nos grupos END e QDM (com exceção do componente afetivo) (p<0,05) nos grupos CI 4 kHz/100 Hz e CI 4 kHz/2 Hz em relação ao GP. Com relação aos desfechos secundários foi encontrada diferença somente entre CI 4kHz/2Hz e GP no TRA. CONCLUSÃO: A corrente interferencial, independente da modulação da frequência, proporcionou efeito analgésico imediato em indivíduos com DLC, sendo superior aos efeitos da corrente Aussie.

Functional outcomes and satisfaction rates of sacral nerve stimulation in the treatment of one and multiples pelvic floor dysfunctions

Objective: Few studies have addressed the use of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in the treatment of patients with multiple pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD). So, we evaluated the functional outcomes and level of satisfaction with SNS in selected patients with one or multiples PFD. Methods: A prospective database was used to collect information on eligible patients treated for PFD with SNS, and severity of symptoms was assessed with scores and satisfaction rates by visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline and by the end of follow-up. Results: We recruited 70 patients, 98.6% of whom responded positively during the evaluation period (Global Response Assessment ≥ 50% for at least one type of PFD), resulting in the implantation of a permanent SNS device. Additionally, 49 of the patients (71%) had a single PFD (fecal incontinence [FI] = 38; constipation/obstructed defecation syndrome [C/ODS] = 11), while 20 (29%) had more than one PFD (double incontinence/n = 12; double incontinence + C/ODS/n = 8). All scores improved significantly between baseline (pre-SNS) and the end of follow-up (post-SNS), as did VAS in all groups (single and multiple PFD). The pre-SNS scores were higher in patients with a single PFD, including FI (Cleveland clinic Florida incontinence score [CCF-FI]) and C/ODS (Cleveland clinic constipation score [C-CCF] and the Renzi ODS score). The pre-SNS impact of VAS scores was similar in all groups (single and multiple PFD), but the VAS (post-SNS) was significantly lower (better response) for FI alone compared with multiple PFD. Conclusion: The SNS technique is an effective and safe option for patients with one or more PFD refractory to conservative measures. Response was positive for at least two PFD, based on reduced correspondent scores and satisfaction rate. (AU)

Estimulación de nervio vago en epilepsia refractaria y callosotomía previa sin mejoría. Reporte de caso / Vagus nerve stimulation in refractory epilepsy and previous callosotomy without vimprovement. Case report / Estimulação do nervo vago em epilepsia refratária e calosotomia prévia sem melhora. Relato de caso

La epilepsia refractaria tanto generalizada como focal, es una patología sumamente incapacitante, para el tratamiento de la misma se ha establecido a la callosotomía desde hace décadas como primera línea quirúrgica para su control, la cual puede presentar efectos secundarios importantes como síndrome de desconexión y pérdida de memoria, sin embargo, existen pacientes que no responden a la callosotomía y necesitan nuevas líneas de tratamiento, buscando en la estimulación de nervio vago una respuesta a su condición. Descripción del caso de estudio. Se presenta el caso de paciente masculino de 24 años de edad con antecedente patológico de convulsiones tipo tónico clónicas generalizadas confirmadas por video electroencefalograma de 24 horas, de predominio nocturno de 13 años de evolución, es sometido a 2 regímenes farmacológicos antiepilépticos diferentes en un período de 7 años de duración, posteriormente diagnosticado con epilepsia refractaria, por lo que se realiza callosotomía sin control de su cuadro clínico, el mismo año se realiza estimulación de nervio vago, presentando resultados favorables en su evolución. Conclusión. Luego de evidenciar el presente caso de estudio se concluye que el tratamiento de epilepsia refractaria con la colocación de un estimulador de nervio vago izquierdo asociado a un correcto régimen FAE es una alternativa muy eficaz para considerar en estos pacientes.

Refractory epilepsy, both generalized and focal, is an extremely disabling pathology. For its treatment, callosotomy has been established for decades as the first surgical line for its control, which can present important side effects such as disconnection and loss syndrome. by heart, however, there are patients who do not respond to callosotomy and need new lines of treatment, looking for an answer to their condition in vagus nerve stimulation. Description of the case study. We present the case of a 24-year-old male patient with a pathological history of generalized tonic-clonic seizures confirmed by a 24-hour video electroencephalogram, predominantly nocturnal for 13 years, undergoing 2 different antiepileptic pharmacological mechanisms over a period of 7 years in duration, later diagnosed with refractory epilepsy, for which callosotomy was performed without control of its clinical picture, the same year vagus nerve stimulation was performed, presenting favorable results in its evolution. Conclution. After evidencing the present case study, it is concluded that the treatment of refractory epilepsy with the placement of a left vagus nerve stimulator associated with a correct AED regimen is a very effective alternative to consider in these patients.

A epilepsia refratária, tanto generalizada quanto focal, é uma patologia extremamente incapacitante. Para seu tratamento, a calosotomia se estabeleceu há décadas como a primeira linha cirúrgica para seu controle, que pode apresentar importantes efeitos colaterais como desconexão e síndrome de perda., há pacientes que não respondem à calosotomia e precisam de novas linhas de tratamento, buscando resposta para sua condição na estimulação do nervo vago. Descrição do estudo de caso. Apresentamos o caso de um doente do sexo masculino, 24 anos, com antecedentes patológicos de crises tónico-clónicas generalizadas confirmadas por videoeletroencefalograma de 24 horas, predominantemente nocturnas há 13 anos, submetido a 2 mecanismos farmacológicos antiepilépticos diferentes ao longo de 7 anos de duração, posteriormente diagnosticada com epilepsia refratária, para a qual foi realizada calosotomia sem controle de seu quadro clínico, no mesmo ano foi realizada estimulação do nervo vago, apresentando resultados favoráveis em sua evolução. Conclusão. Depois de evidenciar o presente estudo de caso, conclui-se que o tratamento da epilepsia refratária com a colocação de um estimulador de nervo vago esquerdo associado a um esquema correto de DEA é uma alternativa muito eficaz a ser considerada nesses pacientes.

Neuromodulação Vagal Auricular e sua Aplicabilidade em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca e Fração de Ejeção Reduzida / Auricular Vagal Neuromodulation and its Application in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction

Resumo Fundamento O desequilíbrio do sistema nervoso autônomo (SNA) na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) cria um ciclo vicioso, o excesso de atividade simpática e a diminuição da atividade vagal contribuindo para a piora da IC. A estimulação elétrica transcutânea de baixa intensidade do ramo auricular do nervo vago (taVNS) é bem tolerada e abre novas possibilidades terapêuticas. Objetivos Gerar hipótese da aplicabilidade e benefício da taVNS na IC através da comparação intergrupos de parâmetros ecocardiográficos, teste de caminhada de 6 min, variabilidade da frequência cardíaca pelo Holter (SDNN e rMSSD), questionário de qualidade de vida de Minnesota e classe funcional pela New York Heart Association. Métodos Estudo clínico prospectivo, duplo cego, randomizado com metodologia sham, unicêntrico. Avaliados 43 pacientes e alocados em 2 grupos: o Grupo 1 recebeu taVNS (frequências 2/15 Hz) e Grupo 2 recebeu sham. Nas comparações, valores de p<0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados Na fase pós-intervenção, observou-se que o Grupo 1 se manteve com melhor rMSSD (31 x 21; p = 0,046) e atingiu melhor SDNN (110 vs. 84, p = 0,033). Ao compararmos os parâmetros intragrupos, antes e após intervenção, observou-se que todos melhoraram significativamente no grupo 1 e não houve diferenças no grupo 2. Conclusão A taVNS é uma intervenção segura, de fácil execução e que sugere provável benefício na IC pela melhora na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca, o que indica melhor equilíbrio autonômico. Novos estudos com maior número de pacientes são necessários para responder às questões levantadas por esse estudo.

Abstract Background The autonomic nervous system (ANS) imbalance in heart failure (HF) creates a vicious cycle, excess sympathetic activity, and decreased vagal activity contributing to the worsening of HF. Low-intensity transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (taVNS) is well tolerated and opens new therapeutic possibilities. Objectives To hypothesize the applicability and benefit of taVNS in HF through intergroup comparison of echocardiography parameters, 6-minute walk test, Holter heart rate variability (SDNN and rMSSD), Minnesota quality of life questionnaire, and functional class by the New York Heart Association. In comparisons, p values <0.05 were considered significant. Methods Prospective, double-blind, randomized clinical study with sham methodology, unicentric. Forty-three patients were evaluated and divided into 2 groups: Group 1 received taVNS (frequencies 2/15 Hz), and Group 2 received sham. In comparisons, p values <0.05 were considered significant. Results In the post-intervention phase, it was observed that Group 1 had better rMSSD (31 x 21; p = 0.046) and achieved better SDNN (110 vs. 84, p = 0.033). When comparing intragroup parameters before and after the intervention, it was observed that all of them improved significantly in group 1, and there were no differences in group 2. Conclusion taVNS is a safe to perform and easy intervention and suggests a probable benefit in HF by improving heart rate variability, which indicates better autonomic balance. New studies with more patients are needed to answer the questions raised by this study.

Effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation combined with robot-assisted therapy on upper limb function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) combined with robot-assisted therapy on upper limb function of subacute stroke patients. MethodsFrom March, 2022 to March, 2023, 60 subacute stroke patients from Dushu Lake Hospital and the First People's Hospital of Kunshan were randomly divided into control group (n = 20), robot group (n = 20) and combined group (n = 20). All the groups received conventional treatments including medication, physical therapy and occupational therapy; the robot group received sham taVNS combined with hand robot-assisted therapy; while the combined group received taVNS combined with hand robot-assisted therapy, for four weeks. They were assessed with Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) and hand part, the root mean square (RMS) electromyography of the extensor carpi radialis and extensor digitorum muscles during contraction, and the latency and amplitude of transcranial magnetic stimulation motor-evoked potential (TMS-MEP) before and after treatment. ResultsAfter treatment, the scores of FMA-UE and hand part, RMS of the extensor carpi radialis and extensor digitorum muscles, and latency and amplitude of TMS-MEP improved in all the groups (t > 2.099, P < 0.05); and they were the best in all indicators in the combined group (F > 9.106, P < 0.001). ConclusiontaVNS combined with robot-assisted therapy can promote central nervous system remodeling and further improve upper limb function in stroke patients.

Application status of electrical stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in postherpetic neuralgia / 中华皮肤科杂志

For the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia, drugs have always played a major but unsatisfactory role. As auxiliary or alternative therapies for postherpetic neuralgia, non-pharmacological interventions, such as electrical stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, not only have shown favorable efficacy, but also can decrease adverse reactions to drugs with high safety and patient acceptance, and are benificial for management of patients with postherpetic neuralgia.

Effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation on postoperative pulmonary function in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on postoperative pulmonary function in the patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer.Method:Ninety-four patients of either sex, aged 50-80 yr, with body mass index of 18-25 kg/m 2, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰ-Ⅲ, with ARISCAT grade of medium risk, undergoing elective robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer, were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into TEAS group (group T, n=47) and sham-TEAS group (group S, n=47) using a random number table method. In group T, patients received 30 min of TEAS at Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), Zusanli (ST36) and Feishu (BL13) between 5: 00 and 7: 00 a. m. from 1st day before operation to 3rd day after operation, with disperse-dense wave 2/100 Hz, and the stimulation intensity was the maximum intensity that the patient could tolerate. Patients in group S were also connected to the device without electrical stimulation. Both groups adopted lung-protective ventilation strategy during operation. The oxygenation index was calculated at the time of entering the operating room (T 0), 5 min after anesthesia induction (T 1), 5 min of pneumoperitoneum (T 2), 5 min after changing to Trendelenburg position (T 3) and immediately after the end of pneumoperitoneum (T 4). Peak airway pressure, plateau airway pressure, driving pressure and dynamic lung compliance were recorded at T 0-T 4. The serum concentration of lung Clara cell 16 kDa protein was recorded using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at T 0, T 4 and 2 h after extubation (T 5). On 1 day before operation and 1, 3 and 7 days after operation, the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were measured, and the FEV 1/FVC was calculated, and the concentrations of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and cardiopulmonary resuscitation were simultaneously determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The occurrence of pulmonary complications within 7 days after operation was recorded. Results:There was no significant difference in pH values, PaCO 2, oxygenation index, peak airway pressure, plateau airway pressure, driving pressure, and dynamic lung compliance at each time point between the two groups ( P>0.05). Compared with S group, the serum Clara cell 16 kDa protein concentrations were significantly decreased at T 5, FEV 1 and FVC were increased at 3 and 7 days after operation, the serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and cardiopulmonary resuscitation concentrations were decreased at 1, 3 and 7 days after operation, the incidence of unexpected oxygen supply and total incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications were decreased ( P<0.05), and no significant change was found in FEV 1/FVC at each time point in T group ( P>0.05). Conclusions:TEAS can improve lung function in the patients undergoing robot-assisted radical resection of colon cancer.

Effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on functional connectivity in the related brain regions of patients with depression based on the resting-state fMRI / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the brain effect mechanism and the correlation between brain functional imaging and cognitive function in treatment of depressive disorder (DD) with transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) based on the resting-state functional magenetic reasonance imaging (rs-fMRI).@*METHODS@#Thirty-two DD patients were included in a depression group and 32 subjects of healthy condition were enrolled in a normal group. In the depression group, the taVNS was applied to bilateral Xin (CO15) and Shen (CO10), at disperse-dense wave, 4 Hz/20 Hz in frequency and current intensity ≤20 mA depending on patient's tolerance, 30 min each time, twice daily. The duration of treatment consisted of 8 weeks. The patients of two groups were undertaken rs-fMRI scanning. The scores of Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) and Wisconsin card sorting test (WCST) were observed in the normal group at baseline and the depression group before and after treatment separately. The differential brain regions were observed before and after treatment in the two groups and the value of degree centrality (DC) of fMRI was obtained. Their correlation was analyzed in terms of HAMD, HAMA and WCST scores.@*RESULTS@#The scores of HAMD and HAMA in the depression group were all higher than those in the normal group (P<0.05). After treatment, the scores of HAMD and HAMA were lower than those before treatment in the depression group; the scores of total responses, response errors and perseverative errors of WCST were all lower than those before treatment (P<0.05). The brain regions with significant differences included the left inferior temporal gyrus, the left cerebellar peduncles region 1, the left insula, the right putamen, the bilateral supplementary motor area and the right middle frontal gyrus. After treatment, the value of DC in left supplementary motor area was negatively correlated to HAMD and HAMA scores respectively (r=-0.324, P=0.012; r=-0.310, P=0.015); the value of DC in left cerebellar peduncles region 1 was negatively correlated to the total responses of WCST (r=-0.322, P=0.013), and the left insula was positively correlated to the total responses of WCST (r=0.271, P=0.036).@*CONCLUSION@#The taVNS can modulate the intensity of the functional activities of some brain regions so as to relieve depressive symptoms and improve cognitive function.

Effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation combined with bilateral arm training on upper limb motor function of stroke patients / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) combined with bilateral arm training (BAT) on upper limb motor function of hemiplegic stroke patients. MethodsFrom January, 2021 to January, 2022，105 stroke patients from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into taVNS group (n = 35), BAT group (n = 35) and combined group (n = 35). All the patients received routine rehabilitation, while taVNS group received taVNS, BAT group received BAT, and the combined group received both taVNS and BAT, for eight weeks. The root mean square (RMS) of surface electromyography in deltoid, triceps brachii and extensor carpi was measured, and the scores of Box and Block Test (BBT), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremities (FMA-UE) were obtained before and after treatment. ResultsThe RMS of all these muscles, and the scores of BBT and FMA-UE improved in all the three groups after treatment (|t| > 6.124, P < 0.001), and they were improved the most in the combined group (F > 18.162, P < 0.001). ConclusionBoth taVNS and BAT can enhance the muscle strength on the affected upper limb, increase the hand flexibility, and improve upper limb motor function of stroke patients, while the combination of both methods is more effective.

Tourette's Syndrome cervical dystonia induced occipital neuralgia remedied by peripheral nerve stimulation: A case report / Síndrome de Tourette, distonia cervical induzida por neuralgia occipital remediada por estimulação nervosa periférica: relato de caso

BACKGROUND: Dystonia is uncommon in Tourette's syndrome, and occipital neuralgia secondary to Tourette's dystonia is more rare, affecting quality of life. Occipital peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is an excellent alternative by being adjustable and minimally invasive. Our case demonstrates occipital PNS as an effective option for refractory Tourette's dystonia. CASE PRESENTATION: A thirty-four-year-old male with poorly controlled Tourette's cervical dystonia presented with severe occipital neuralgia. Various medications were prescribed including propranolol and amitriptyline, and bilateral third-occipital nerve rhizotomies and occipital nerve blocks were trialed. Distal nerve blocks at the occipital protuberance were most effective. Therefore, an occipital PNS trial was done, and a PNS was implanted with no complications. Upon follow-up, the patient reported drastic pain reduction. CONCLUSION: Our case illustrates neuromodulation benefits for a rare presentation of refractory occipital neuralgia secondary to Tourette's-related dystonia. Occipital PNS should be considered for refractory cases because it is safe, easy to implant, and effective.

FUNDAMENTO: A distonia é incomum na síndrome de Tourette, e a neuralgia occipital secundária à distonia de Tourette é mais rara, afetando a qualidade de vida. A estimulação do nervo periférico occipital (SNP) é uma excelente alternativa por ser ajustável e minimamente invasiva. Nosso caso demonstra o SNP occipital como uma opção eficaz para a distonia de Tourette refratária. APRESENTAÇÃO DO CASO: Um homem de 34 anos com distonia cervical de Tourette mal controlada apresentou neuralgia occipital grave. Vários medicamentos foram prescritos, incluindo propranolol e amitriptilina, e foram testadas rizotomias bilaterais do nervo terceiro-occipital e bloqueios do nervo occipital. Os bloqueios dos nervos distais na protuberância occipital foram mais eficazes. Portanto, foi feito um ensaio de PNS occipital e um PNS foi implantado sem complicações. Após o acompanhamento, o paciente relatou redução drástica da dor. CONCLUSÃO: Nosso caso ilustra os benefícios da neuromodulação para uma apresentação rara de neuralgia occipital refratária secundária à distonia relacionada a Tourette. O PNS occipital deve ser considerado para casos refratários porque é seguro, fácil de implantar e eficaz.

Comparison of Pre- and Posttreatment Airway Volume in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Treated with Ultra-Low Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract Introduction Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) present with a multitude of symptoms that can range from headaches to shoulder pain. Patients frequently present with pain in the ear, dizziness, and vertigo. It is noted that some patients who report TMDs also have a history of sleep disturbances, which is noted in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as a reduction in the oropharyngeal airway volume. Objective To evaluate the airway volume in pre- and posttreatment of TMD with the use of neuromuscular orthotics made with ultra-low frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (ULF-TENS). Methods A total of 15 patients were evaluated for TMDs using the related criteria. Those included were treated with ULF-TENS with evaluation of the airway volume both pre- and posttreatment using CBCT and the Dolphin 3D volume analysis software. Results While the symptoms were shown to be significantly reduced in patients who were treated with this particular modality, the airway volume varied in those who reported a reduction after a period of 3 months and those that reported after a period of 6 months. Conclusion Posttreatment evaluation of the airway should be done after a period of 6 months for a more objective evaluation. A multidisciplinary evaluation of the patient is required in such cases.

Vocal rehabilitation in singers with vocal complaints: a digital kymography analysis / Reabilitação vocal em cantoras com queixa vocal: análise da videoquimografia digital

ABSTRACT Purpose: to evaluate the effects of the Comprehensive Vocal Rehabilitation Program associated with the application of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation through digital kymography in singers with vocal complaints. Methods: an experimental intrasubject comparative study in 24 singers, who underwent the rehabilitation program associated with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. They were assessed with laryngeal high-speed videoendoscopy before and after vocal rehabilitation. The paired t-test and Wilcoxon test were used to compare the two assessments. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: significant differences were found in the maximum opening, dominant amplitude of the opening variation and dominant frequency of the opening variation of the right vocal fold in the posterior glottic region, and in maximum opening, mean opening, dominant amplitude of the opening variation of the left vocal fold and dominant frequency of the opening variation of both vocal folds in the anterior glottic region. Conclusion: the results showed that the Comprehensive Vocal Rehabilitation Program associated with transcutaneous electrical stimulation decreased the opening amplitude of the vocal fold, increased the vibration frequency, and improved glottal closure in the anterior and posterior glottic regions.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar os efeitos do Programa Integral de Reabilitação Vocal associado à aplicação da estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea por meio da videoquimografia digital em cantoras com queixa vocal. Métodos: estudo experimental comparativo intrassujeitos com 24 cantoras, que realizaram o programa de reabilitação associado à estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea. A avaliação, por meio da videolaringoscopia de alta velocidade, foi realizada antes e após a reabilitação vocal. Os testes T pareado e de Wilcoxon foram utilizados para comparação das duas avaliações. Considerou-se o nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: diferenças significantes foram identificadas quanto aos parâmetros de abertura máxima, amplitude dominante de variação de abertura e frequência dominante de abertura da prega vocal direita na região posterior da glote, além dos parâmetros de abertura máxima, abertura média, amplitude dominante de variação de abertura da prega vocal esquerda e frequência dominante de abertura de ambas as pregas vocais na região anterior da glote. Conclusão: os resultados mostraram que o Programa Integral de Reabilitação Vocal associado à estimulação elétrica transcutânea promoveu uma diminuição da amplitude de abertura da prega vocal e aumento da frequência de vibração, além de um melhor fechamento glótico nas regiões anterior e posterior da glote.

Efeito da estimulação elétrica transcutânea do nervo vago na inflamação, modulação autonômica cardíaca e evolução clínica dos pacientes com COVID-19: estudo de protocolo para um ensaio clínico, controlado, randomizado e cego / Efecto de la estimulación eléctrica transcutánea del nervio vago sobre la inflamación, la modulación autonómica cardiac y la evolución clínica de pacientes con COVID-19: estudio de protocolo para un ensayo clínico, controlado, aleatorizado y ciego / Effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on inflammation, cardiac autonomic modulation, and clinical evolution of patients with COVID-19: protocol for a clinical, controlled, randomized, and blind trial

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o efeito da estimulação elétrica transcutânea do nervo vago (EETNV) na inflamação, modulação autonômica cardíaca e evolução clínica dos pacientes com COVID-19. Trata-se de um ensaio clínico, controlado por sham, randomizado e cego, no qual participarão 52 indivíduos hospitalizados com diagnóstico de COVID-19, que serão randomizados em dois grupos de tratamento: grupo experimental (tratamento médico usual associado à EETNV ativa) ou grupo-controle (tratamento médico usual associado à EETNV sham). A EETNV será realizada por meio de um estimulador elétrico neuromuscular (modelo Dualpex 071 da Quark Medical Products), com o eletrodo de estimulação posicionado sobre o tragus esquerdo, com corrente alternada, frequência de 30Hz e variação de 50%, intensidade ajustada para o limiar sensorial do paciente, com duração de 90 minutos cada sessão de estimulação, duas vezes ao dia, durante sete dias consecutivos, totalizando 14 sessões. Serão avaliados pré e pós-intervenção o nível de interleucina-6 (IL-6) e interleucina-10 (IL-10), cortisol e proteína C reativa (PCR), pressão arterial, variabilidade da frequência cardíaca pelos parâmetros de baixa frequência (BF), alta frequência (AF) e pela razão da baixa e alta frequência (BF/AF), além de evolução clínica dos pacientes, incluindo o nível de ansiedade e depressão, cujos dados serão obtidos por meio de prontuários e questionários. Será realizado também um acompanhamento 7 e 14 dias após o término das intervenções para verificar a evolução clínica, incluindo nível de ansiedade e depressão, e durante seis meses serão avaliadas memória e atenção.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el efecto de la estimulación eléctrica transcutánea del nervio vago (EETNV) sobre la inflamación, la modulación autonómica cardíaca y la evolución clínica de pacientes con COVID-19. Se trata de un ensayo clínico, controlado por simulado, aleatorizado y ciego, en el que participarán 52 individuos hospitalizados diagnosticados de COVID-19, que serán aleatorizados en dos grupos de tratamiento: grupo experimental (tratamiento médico habitual asociado a la EETNV activa) o grupo control (tratamiento médico habitual asociado a la EETNV simulada). La EETNV se realizará mediante un estimulador eléctrico neuromuscular (modelo Dualpex 071 de Quark Medical Products), con el electrodo de estimulación colocado en el trago izquierdo, con corriente alterna, frecuencia de 30Hz y 50% de variación, intensidad ajustada al umbral sensorial del paciente, con una duración de 90 minutos cada sesión de estimulación, dos veces al día, durante siete días consecutivos, lo que totaliza 14 sesiones. Se evaluarán antes y después de la intervención la interleucina-6 (IL-6) y la interleucina-10 (IL-10), el cortisol y la proteína C reactiva (PCR), la presión arterial, la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca por los parámetros de baja frecuencia (BF), alta frecuencia (AF) y razón de baja y alta frecuencia (BF/AF), así como la evolución clínica de los pacientes, incluidos los parámetros de ansiedad y depresión cuyos datos se obtendrán de historias clínicas y cuestionarios. También se realizará un seguimiento de 7 y 14 días tras finalizadas las intervenciones para verificar la evolución clínica, incluidos el nivel de ansiedad y de depresión, y durante seis meses se evaluará la memoria y la atención.

ABSTRACT This study aims to evaluate the effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on inflammation, cardiac autonomic modulation, and clinical evolution of patients with COVID-19. This is a clinical, sham-controlled, randomized, and blind trial, in which 52 hospitalized individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 will participate. They will be randomized into: experimental group (usual medical treatment associated with active taVNS) and control group (usual medical treatment associated with sham taVNS). The taVNS will be performed by a neuromuscular electric stimulator (Dualpex model 071 of Quark Medical Products), with the stimulation electrode positioned on the left tragus, with alternating current, at a 30Hz frequency with 50% variation. Intensity will be adjusted to the patient's sensory threshold, with 90-minutes-long stimulation sessions, happening twice per day for seven consecutive days, totaling 14 sessions. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), cortisol and C-reactive protein (CRP), blood pressure, heart rate variability (HRV) by low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF) and low and high frequency ratio (LF/HF) parameters will be evaluated before and after the intervention, as well as patients' clinical evolution-including anxiety and depression levels-whose data will be obtained through medical records and questionnaires. A follow-up will also be performed seven and 14 days after the end of the interventions to verify the clinical evolution, including anxiety and depression levels. Memory and attention levels will be evaluated for six months.