Review Article
Efficacy and Safety of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Post-surgical Motor Strength Recovery in
Neuro-oncologic Patients: A Systematic Review
Ranhel De Roxas*
,
Ana Gabriela Cabungcal,
Mia Patrice Dela Vega,
Marian Sheryl Milo
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
34-40
Received:
28 April 2026
Accepted:
9 May 2026
Published:
18 May 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.cmr.20261503.11
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Abstract: Background: Post-surgical motor deficits are a frequent complication in neuro-oncologic patients and can significantly affect functional recovery. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic modality to facilitate motor rehabilitation. This systematic review examined the effectiveness and safety of TMS in promoting motor recovery following brain tumor surgery. Methods: A systematic review of four studies evaluating TMS for postoperative motor rehabilitation in patients with brain tumors was performed. Outcome measures included motor function assessments using the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), and Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), as well as the incidence of adverse events. Results: The effects of TMS on motor recovery were inconsistent across studies, with some demonstrating improvements in BMRC and FMA scores, while others reported limited therapeutic benefit. Overall, TMS was generally well tolerated, with only minimal adverse events documented. Conclusions: TMS may represent a safe and promising adjunctive intervention for postoperative motor recovery in brain tumor patients; however, the current evidence remains insufficient to establish definitive clinical benefit. Further large-scale prospective studies using standardized treatment protocols are necessary to clarify its therapeutic efficacy and long-term safety profile.
Abstract: Background: Post-surgical motor deficits are a frequent complication in neuro-oncologic patients and can significantly affect functional recovery. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic modality to facilitate motor rehabilitation. This systematic review examined the effectiveness and safety of TMS in promotin...
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