Dr. John Rothwell

The reorganization of motor networks after stroke

Friday, January 18th at 1:30 pm -3:30 pm
Room 1034, McIntyre Medical Building, 1200 av des Pins ouest

Dr. John Rothwell is a professor of neurophysiology at the Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London.

Abstract

Reorganisation of motor circuits in the cerebral cortex is thought to contribute to recovery following stroke. Indeed, the consequences can be observed as changes in the pattern of metabolic activity accompanying simple motor tasks in imaging studies using fMRI and PET. I will show how it is possible to use transcranial magnetic stimulation together with functional imaging methods to investigate how such changes occur, how they develop in the weeks and months after the insult, and how they relate to changing patterns of organisation that can be induced in healthy normal subjects by temporary interference with function of selected motor circuits. Recent work has also focussed on attempts to manipulate recovery and promote maximal functional benefit using transcranial stimulation as a therapeutic intervention. I will review these studies and assess the potential use of rTMS in rehabilitation.