Objective: To explore the effect of self-efficacy training combined with repetitive
transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on cognitive function, self-efficacy level and
psychological status of patients with cognitive dysfunction after cerebral infarction.
Methods: A total of 80 eligible patients were randomly divided into two groups: selfefficacy
training combined with rTMS group and rTMS group (control group). Both groups
received routine treatment (drug treatment and cognitive rehabilitation training). rTMS
group received high-frequency rTMS treatment and the self-efficacy training combined with
rTMS group received self-efficacy training combined with high-frequency rTMS treatment
for 4 weeks. Before and 4 weeks after treatment, the cognitive function, self-efficacy level
and psychological status of the patients were assessed and compared by using the Montreal
Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), General Self-Efficacy Scale, Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale
and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale.
Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in gender, age,
course of disease, lesion side, years of education and MoCA, General Self-Efficacy Scale, Zung
Self-Rating Depression Scale and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale scores before treatment
(P >0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the MoCA score, self-efficacy level and Zung Self-
Rating Depression Scale and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale scores of the two groups were
significantly improved (P <0.05). Compared with rTMS group, the improvement of MoCA
score, self-efficacy level and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety
Scale scores in self-efficacy training combined with rTMS group was more significant
(P <0.05).
Conclusion: Self-efficacy training combined with high-frequency rTMS has better curative
effects in cognitive function, self-efficacy level and psychological status of patients with
cognitive dysfunction after cerebral infarction, and it is safe and helpful to improve the
quality of life.