In patients with ischemic stroke, the primary focus revolves around enhancing the neuroprotective and rehabilitative effects of external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) and elucidating its underlying central mechanisms. Through clinical trials and neuroimaging studies, this research endeavors to 1) investigate the clinical impact of TNS on brain protection and 2) rehabilitation acceleration in ischemic stroke patients, while concurrently exploring the potential central nervous mechanisms involved. The ultimate aim is to contribute a novel therapeutic approach to the clinical management of acute ischemic stroke.
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Inclusion Criteria: * Age over 18 years; * Medically diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke; * Ability to receive trigeminal nerve stimulation within 72 hours post-stroke onset; * NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score ≥ 4; * Signed informed consent form; * Ability and willingness to comply with the study requirements. Exclusion Criteria: * History of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within the past 3 months; * Patients in a comatose state; * Severe allergic reaction to MR contrast agents or renal impairment, eGFR \<30 ml/min, excluding the use of contrast agents; * Pregnant or breastfeeding women; * Any other life-threatening or severe medical condition that may interfere with the completion of the study protocol, including the 3-month follow-up; * Exclusion from trigeminal nerve stimulation: patients with trigeminal neuralgia or facial pain; * Current or recent participation in other neuromodulation stimulation therapies within the past 3 months; * Refusal to sign the informed consent form; * Presence of contraindications related to MRI scanning.