Published online Jul 6, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i19.4707
Peer-review started: April 10, 2023
First decision: May 12, 2023
Revised: May 22, 2023
Accepted: June 9, 2023
Article in press: June 9, 2023
Published online: July 6, 2023
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a form of magnetic stimulation therapy used to treat depression, migraine, and motor function impairment in patients with stroke. As there is little research on the effects of rTMS in pregnant women, it is not widely used in these patients. This case report aimed to demonstrate the safety of rTMS in pregnant patients.
After much consideration, we applied rTMS to treat recent stroke and hemiplegia in a 34-year-old pregnant woman. The patient received 45 sessions of low-frequency treatment over the course of 10 wk. We closely monitored the mother and fetus for potential side effects; the results showed significant improvement in the patient's motor function, with no harmful effects on the mother or fetus during pregnancy or after delivery. The patient’s fine motor and walking functions improved after treatment. This case is the first instance of a stroke patient treated with rTMS during pregnancy.
This case demonstrates that rTMS could be used to improve motor function recovery in stroke patients during pregnancy.
Core Tip: This case report describes the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to improve the motor function of a patient after stroke. The patient was pregnant, but low-frequency rTMS was deemed to be safe and was administered for 10 wk. After treatment, the patient regained function in her hands and was able to walk without a cane, and no side effects were observed in the patient or her baby. This case demonstrates that rTMS can be used safely in pregnant patients.