Abstract: Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) and continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) in the treatment of elderly patients with post-stroke aphasia(PSA). Methods Fifty elderly patients with PSA were randomly assigned to the LF-rTMS group (n=25) and the cTBS group (n=25) using a random number table. Both groups received conventional speech and language therapy. In addition, the LF-rTMS group received LF-rTMS intervention, while the cTBS group received cTBS intervention. Language function and daily communication ability were assessed before treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment using the Chinese version of the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB) and the Communicative Activities of Daily Living (CADL) scale. During the treatment period, the occurrence of adverse reactions including headache, dizziness, tinnitus and epileptic seizures were recorded. Results After 4 weeks of treatment, both groups showed significant improvements in the scores of spontaneous speech, comprehension, repetition and naming in the Chinese version of WAB, as well as aphasia quotient (AQ) and CADL scores. Compared with the LF-rTMS group, the cTBS group showed significantly greater improvements in comprehension and repetition scores, AQ, and CADL scores after treatment (P<0.05). No serious adverse events were observed in either group. Conclusions Both LF-rTMS and cTBS may improve language function and daily communication ability in older patients with PSA. Compared with LF-rTMS, cTBS may provide additional benefits in comprehension, repetition, AQ, and CADL scores, with good short-term safety and tolerability.

Key words: low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, continuous theta burst stimulation, aged, post-stroke aphasia