Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Cardiac Autonomic Dysfunction

24-hour Holter monitoring, also known as ambulatory electrocardiography, records the heart rhythm continuously over a 24-hour period using electrodes placed on the patient's chest during daily activities. A three-channel Holter device collects data from three different leads. Heart rate variability (HRV), reflecting autonomic nervous system function and cardiovascular regulation, is calculated from the Holter recordings. Continuous Electrocardiography (ECG) data are analyzed by precisely calculating R-R intervals and removing ectopic beats. HRV parameters are then computed using specialized software or statistical programs. Recordings will be obtained at baseline and final repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) sessions, and HRV parameters will be calculated separately.

The Brunnstrom Stage assesses motor recovery in hemiplegic patients. The neurophysiological recovery process is classified into six stages. Higher Brunnstrom levels are associated with better clinical outcomes.

Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) will measure spasticity in the limbs. MAS evaluates muscle tone on a 0-4 scale: Higher scores represent spasticity or increased resistance to passive movement. All variables are rated on a scale ranging from 0 to 4: 0 means no increase in muscle tone (better outcome) and 4 means rigid (worse outcome).

SSQOL is a patient-centered, stroke-specific quality of life measure consisting of 49 items across 12 sub domains. Each domain has at least 3 items scored on a 5-point Likert scale considering the past week. Higher scores indicate better function. The scale is validated and reliable for the Turkish population.

Grip strength measurements are performed after the patient is appropriately positioned. Three measurements are taken with 5-second intervals and averaged. Grip strength is measured bilaterally and the maximum voluntary contraction is recorded in kilograms.

COMPASS-31 is a 31-item self-report questionnaire designed to assess autonomic nervous system function and the severity of autonomic dysfunction. The scale evaluates symptoms across six domains. Responses are weighted and summed to produce a total score ranging from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating more severe autonomic dysfunction.

Blood pressure will be measured by trained personnel using calibrated auscultatory or oscillometric sphygmomanometers in a quiet, temperature-controlled environment. Participants will avoid food, caffeine, smoking, alcohol, and exercise for at least 30 minutes before measurement. Measurements will be taken twice in each arm, averaged, and the higher value will be recorded.