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.