Application of multidimensional cognitive training in the early postoperative period for glioma patients with cognitive impairment.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of a Multidimensional Cognitive Training (MCT) program on cognitive function, quality of life, and anxiety, depression symptoms among glioma patients experiencing cognitive impairment. METHODS: A single-center, assessor-blinded, non-randomized controlled trial was conducted from January 2024 to January 2025 among glioma patients with cognitive impairment admitted to the neurosurgery department of a tertiary hospital in Lanzhou. Eligible participants were assigned to an intervention group (MCT plus standard rehabilitation care) or a control group (standard rehabilitation care only) based on their hospital ward. The MCT program was developed through expert consensus. Cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment [MoCA]), health-related quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30), anxiety (Self-Rating Anxiety Scale [SAS]), and depression (Self-Rating Depression Scale [SDS]) were measured at baseline (T1), 4 weeks (T2), and 12 weeks (T3). Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and generalized estimating equations. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients completed the study (intervention group: n = 36; control group: n = 33), with no significant baseline differences. Compared with controls, the intervention group showed greater gains in global cognitive function (MoCA: time × group interaction, p < 0.001; 12-week difference, p = 0.001) and specific cognitive domains (attention, language, memory, and orientation; all p < 0.05). Anxiety and depression also decreased significantly (SAS: interaction, p < 0.001; SDS: interaction, p < 0.01; between-group differences at 4 and 12 weeks, p < 0.05). Health-related quality of life (QLQ-C30: time × group interaction, p = 0.002; between-group difference at 12 weeks, p = 0.035). CONCLUSION: MCT enhanced cognitive function, reduced anxiety and depression, and improved quality of life in glioma patients with cognitive impairment, likely through psychological regulation, environmental adaptation, and cognitive remodeling. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT06327048) February 29, 2024. The trial was retrospectively registered.