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Teh JJ, Pascoe DJ, Hafeji S, Parchure R, Koczoski A, Rimmer MP, Khan KS, Al Wattar BH. Efficacy of virtual reality for pain relief in medical procedures: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Med 2024; 22:64. [PMID: 38355563 PMCID: PMC10865524 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective pain control is crucial to optimise the success of medical procedures. Immersive virtual reality (VR) technology could offer an effective non-invasive, non-pharmacological option to distract patients and reduce their experience of pain. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Immersive virtual reality (VR) technology in reducing patient's pain perception during various medical procedures by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and SIGLE until December 2022 for all randomised clinical trials (RCT) evaluating any type of VR in patients undergoing any medical procedure. We conducted a random effect meta-analysis summarising standardised mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We evaluated heterogeneity using I 2 and explored it using subgroup and meta-regression analyses. RESULTS In total, we included 92 RCTs (n = 7133 participants). There was a significant reduction in pain scores with VR across all medical procedures (n = 83, SMD - 0.78, 95% CI - 1.00 to - 0.57, I 2 = 93%, p = < 0.01). Subgroup analysis showed varied reduction in pain scores across trial designs [crossover (n = 13, SMD - 0.86, 95% CI - 1.23 to - 0.49, I 2 = 72%, p = < 0.01) vs parallel RCTs (n = 70, SMD - 0.77, 95% CI - 1.01 to - 0.52, I 2 = 90%, p = < 0.01)]; participant age groups [paediatric (n = 43, SMD - 0.91, 95% CI - 1.26 to - 0.56, I 2 = 87%, p = < 0.01) vs adults (n = 40, SMD - 0.66, 95% CI - 0.94 to - 0.39, I 2 = 89%, p = < 0.01)] or procedures [venepuncture (n = 32, SMD - 0.99, 95% CI - 1.52 to - 0.46, I 2 = 90%, p = < 0.01) vs childbirth (n = 7, SMD - 0.99, 95% CI - 1.59 to - 0.38, I 2 = 88%, p = < 0.01) vs minimally invasive medical procedures (n = 25, SMD - 0.51, 95% CI - 0.79 to - 0.23, I 2 = 85%, p = < 0.01) vs dressing changes in burn patients (n = 19, SMD - 0.8, 95% CI - 1.16 to - 0.45, I 2 = 87%, p = < 0.01)]. We explored heterogeneity using meta-regression which showed no significant impact of different covariates including crossover trials (p = 0.53), minimally invasive procedures (p = 0.37), and among paediatric participants (p = 0.27). Cumulative meta-analysis showed no change in overall effect estimates with the additional RCTs since 2018. CONCLUSIONS Immersive VR technology offers effective pain control across various medical procedures, albeit statistical heterogeneity. Further research is needed to inform the safe adoption of this technology across different medical disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhia J Teh
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Safiya Hafeji
- Kings College Hospital, Denmark Hill, Brixton, London, UK
| | | | - Adam Koczoski
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael P Rimmer
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, Edinburgh BioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- . Johns Hospital, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland, UK.
| | - Khalid S Khan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Bassel H Al Wattar
- University College London, London, UK
- Beginnings Assisted Conception Unit, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals, London, UK
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Thomasson M, Perez-Marcos D, Crottaz-Herbette S, Brenet F, Saj A, Bernati T, Serino A, Tadi T, Blanke O, Ronchi R. An immersive virtual reality tool for assessing left and right unilateral spatial neglect. J Neuropsychol 2024. [PMID: 38225801 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The reported rate of the occurrence of unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is highly variable likely due to the lack of validity and low sensitivity of classical tools used to assess it. Virtual reality (VR) assessments try to overcome these limitations by proposing immersive and complex environments. Nevertheless, existing VR-based tasks are mostly focused only on near space and lack analysis of psychometric properties and/or clinical validation. The present study evaluates the clinical validity and sensitivity of a new immersive VR-based task to assess USN in the extra-personal space and examines the neuronal correlates of deficits of far space exploration. The task was administrated to two groups of patients with right (N = 28) or left (N = 11) hemispheric brain lesions, also undergoing classical paper-and-pencil assessment, as well as a group of healthy participants. Our VR-based task detected 44% of neglect cases compared to 31% by paper-and-pencil tests in the total sample. Importantly, 30% of the patients (with right or left brain lesions) with no clear sign of USN on the paper-and-pencil tests performed outside the normal range in the VR-based task. Voxel lesion-symptom mapping revealed that deficits detected in VR were associated with lesions in insular and temporal cortex, part of the neural network involved in spatial processing. These results show that our immersive VR-based task is efficient and sensitive in detecting mild to strong manifestations of USN affecting the extra-personal space, which may be undetected using standard tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Thomasson
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Neuropsychology Unit, Neurology Department, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Cognitive and Experimental Neuropsychology Laboratory, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Sonia Crottaz-Herbette
- MindMaze SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Neuropsychology and Neurorehabilitation Service, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Arnaud Saj
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- CRIR/Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
- Spectre Biotech, Paris, France
| | - Thérèse Bernati
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Serino
- MindMaze SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
- MySpace Lab, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuro-X Institute and Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tej Tadi
- MindMaze SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olaf Blanke
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuro-X Institute and Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Roberta Ronchi
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Neuropsychology Unit, Neurology Department, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuro-X Institute and Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
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Bsharat B, Al-Duhoun A, Ghanouni P. The acceptance and attitudes towards using assistive technology for people with stroke in Jordan: caregivers' perspectives. Assist Technol 2024; 36:40-50. [PMID: 37083581 DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2023.2202723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the acceptance and attitudes toward assistive technology (AT) for people with stroke from their caregivers' perspectives in Jordan. Also, this study further validates the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) questionnaire. This is a cross-sectional study that includes a three-sections survey: the first section contains demographic data, the second section includes the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) questionnaire, and the third section consists of two optional open-ended questions. Among 123 caregivers of people with stroke over 18 years of age who participated in this study, 23% were male. The findings indicate a moderate to high acceptance of using AT for stroke survivors, confirm the validity and reliability of the UTAUT questionnaire, and clarify novel issues regarding AT based on the caregivers' perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bara'ah Bsharat
- Clinical Rehabilitation Science, Occupational Therapy, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Al-Duhoun
- Princess Muna College of Nursing and Faculty of Nursing, Mutah university, Zarka, Jordan
| | - Parisa Ghanouni
- School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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Norwood MF, Painter DR, Marsh CH, Reid C, Hine T, Harvie DS, Jones S, Dungey K, Chen B, Libera M, Gan L, Bernhardt J, Kendall E, Zeeman H. The attention atlas virtual reality platform maps three-dimensional (3D) attention in unilateral spatial neglect patients: a protocol. BRAIN IMPAIR 2023; 24:548-567. [PMID: 38167362 DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2022.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficits in visuospatial attention, known as neglect, are common following brain injury, but underdiagnosed and poorly treated, resulting in long-term cognitive disability. In clinical settings, neglect is often assessed using simple pen-and-paper tests. While convenient, these cannot characterise the full spectrum of neglect. This protocol reports a research programme that compares traditional neglect assessments with a novel virtual reality attention assessment platform: The Attention Atlas (AA). METHODS/DESIGN The AA was codesigned by researchers and clinicians to meet the clinical need for improved neglect assessment. The AA uses a visual search paradigm to map the attended space in three dimensions and seeks to identify the optimal parameters that best distinguish neglect from non-neglect, and the spectrum of neglect, by providing near-time feedback to clinicians on system-level behavioural performance. A series of experiments will address procedural, scientific, patient, and clinical feasibility domains. RESULTS Analyses focuses on descriptive measures of reaction time, accuracy data for target localisation, and histogram-based raycast attentional mapping analysis; which measures the individual's orientation in space, and inter- and intra-individual variation of visuospatial attention. We will compare neglect and control data using parametric between-subjects analyses. We present example individual-level results produced in near-time during visual search. CONCLUSIONS The development and validation of the AA is part of a new generation of translational neuroscience that exploits the latest advances in technology and brain science, including technology repurposed from the consumer gaming market. This approach to rehabilitation has the potential for highly accurate, highly engaging, personalised care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Francis Norwood
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
| | - David Ross Painter
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
| | - Chelsea Hannah Marsh
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Connor Reid
- Technical Partners Health (TPH), Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Trevor Hine
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, QLD, Australia
| | - Daniel S Harvie
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT in Health), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Susan Jones
- Neurosciences Rehabilitation Unit, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Kelly Dungey
- Neurosciences Rehabilitation Unit, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ben Chen
- Allied Health and Rehabilitation, Emergency and Specialty Services, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Marilia Libera
- Psychology Department, Logan Hospital, Logan, QLD, Australia
| | - Leslie Gan
- Rehabilitation Unit, Logan Hospital, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
| | - Julie Bernhardt
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Kendall
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
| | - Heidi Zeeman
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia
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Kouijzer MMTE, Kip H, Bouman YHA, Kelders SM. Implementation of virtual reality in healthcare: a scoping review on the implementation process of virtual reality in various healthcare settings. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:67. [PMID: 37328858 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00442-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly used in healthcare settings as recent technological advancements create possibilities for diagnosis and treatment. VR is a technology that uses a headset to simulate a reality in which the user is immersed in a virtual environment, creating the impression that the user is physically present in this virtual space. Despite the potential added value of virtual reality technology in healthcare, its uptake in clinical practice is still in its infancy and challenges arise in the implementation of VR. Effective implementation could improve the adoption, uptake, and impact of VR. However, these implementation procedures still seem to be understudied in practice. This scoping review aimed to examine the current state of affairs in the implementation of VR technology in healthcare settings and to provide an overview of factors related to the implementation of VR. METHODS To give an overview of relevant literature, a scoping review was undertaken of articles published up until February 2022, guided by the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley (2005). The databases Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify records that highlighted the current state of affairs regarding the implementation of VR in healthcare settings. Information about each study was extracted using a structured data extraction form. RESULTS Of the 5523 records identified, 29 were included in this study. Most studies focused on barriers and facilitators to implementation, highlighting similar factors related to the behavior of adopters of VR and the practical resources the organization should arrange for. However, few studies focus on systematic implementation and on using a theoretical framework to guide implementation. Despite the recommendation of using a structured, multi-level implementation intervention to support the needs of all involved stakeholders, there was no link between the identified barriers and facilitators, and specific implementation objectives or suitable strategies to overcome these barriers in the included articles. CONCLUSION To take the implementation of VR in healthcare to the next level, it is important to ensure that implementation is not studied in separate studies focusing on one element, e.g., healthcare provider-related barriers, as is common in current literature. Based on the results of this study, we recommend that the implementation of VR entails the entire process, from identifying barriers to developing and employing a coherent, multi-level implementation intervention with suitable strategies. This implementation process could be supported by implementation frameworks and ideally focus on behavior change of stakeholders such as healthcare providers, patients, and managers. This in turn might result in increased uptake and use of VR technologies that are of added value for healthcare practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marileen M T E Kouijzer
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.
| | - Hanneke Kip
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
- Department of Research, Transfore, Deventer, Netherlands
| | | | - Saskia M Kelders
- Centre for eHealth and Wellbeing Research; Department of Technology, Human & Institutional Behaviour, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
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Brassel S, Brunner M, Power E, Campbell A, Togher L. Speech-Language Pathologists' Views of Using Virtual Reality for Managing Cognitive-Communication Disorders Following Traumatic Brain Injury. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2023; 32:907-923. [PMID: 36580534 DOI: 10.1044/2022_ajslp-22-00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using virtual reality (VR) to support rehabilitation is an emerging area of research that may offer people with communication disorders a stable and safe communication environment to practice their communication skills. There are currently no VR applications that have been designed to assess or treat cognitive-communication disorders (CCDs) following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Therefore, this study aimed to explore the views of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) who work with people who have a TBI to generate ideas and considerations for using VR in rehabilitation for CCDs. VR researchers were included to provide expert advice about VR technology. METHOD A total of 14 SLPs and three VR specialists participated in an online interview or focus group. Semistructured discussions explored participants' perspectives related to potential ideas for VR use and any perceived barriers and facilitators to VR implementation for managing CCDs following TBI. Data were video- and audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. RESULTS Three main themes were generated from thematic analysis: VR is a tool that could enhance clinical practice, the need to consider and navigate potential red flags, and solutions to pave the way forward. Suggestions to overcome perceived barriers to VR use were also provided. DISCUSSION Participants expressed interest in using VR for rehabilitation of CCDs following TBI. However, potential barriers and risks to use should be considered prior to implementation. The findings offer guidance to support future research and development of VR in this field. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21669647.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Brassel
- Discipline of Speech Pathology, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melissa Brunner
- Discipline of Speech Pathology, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Emma Power
- Speech Pathology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew Campbell
- Biomedical Informatics and Digital Health, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Leanne Togher
- Discipline of Speech Pathology, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Perez-Marcos D, Ronchi R, Giroux A, Brenet F, Serino A, Tadi T, Blanke O. An immersive virtual reality system for ecological assessment of peripersonal and extrapersonal unilateral spatial neglect. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:33. [PMID: 36934277 PMCID: PMC10024837 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01156-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is a debilitating neuropsychological syndrome that often follows brain injury, in particular a stroke affecting the right hemisphere. In current clinical practice, the assessment of neglect is based on old-fashioned paper-and-pencil and behavioral tasks, and sometimes relies on the examiner's subjective judgment. Therefore, there is a need for more exhaustive, objective and ecological assessments of USN. METHODS In this paper, we present two tasks in immersive virtual reality to assess peripersonal and extrapersonal USN. The tasks are designed with several levels of difficulty to increase sensitivity of the assessment. We then validate the feasibility of both assessments in a group of healthy adult participants. RESULTS We report data from a study with a group of neurologically unimpaired participants (N = 39). The results yield positive feedback on comfort, usability and design of the tasks. We propose new objective scores based on participant's performance captured by head gaze and hand position information, including, for instance, time of exploration, moving time towards left/right and time-to-reach, which could be used for the evaluation of the attentional spatial bias with neurological patients. Together with the number of omissions, the new proposed parameters can result in lateralized index ratios as a measure of asymmetry in space exploration. CONCLUSIONS We presented two innovative assessments for USN based on immersive virtual reality, evaluating the far and the near space, using ecological tasks in multimodal, realistic environments. The proposed protocols and objective scores can help distinguish neurological patients with and without USN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberta Ronchi
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | | | - Andrea Serino
- MindMaze SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- MySpace Lab, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tej Tadi
- MindMaze SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olaf Blanke
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Brain-Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Abbas JR, O'Connor A, Ganapathy E, Isba R, Payton A, McGrath B, Tolley N, Bruce IA. What is Virtual Reality? A healthcare-focused systematic review of definitions. HEALTH POLICY AND TECHNOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlpt.2023.100741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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Cavedoni S, Cipresso P, Mancuso V, Bruni F, Pedroli E. Virtual reality for the assessment and rehabilitation of neglect: where are we now? A 6-year review update. VIRTUAL REALITY 2022; 26:1663-1704. [PMID: 35669614 PMCID: PMC9148943 DOI: 10.1007/s10055-022-00648-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is a frequent repercussion of a cerebrovascular accident, typically a stroke. USN patients fail to orient their attention to the contralesional side to detect auditory, visual, and somatosensory stimuli, as well as to collect and purposely use this information. Traditional methods for USN assessment and rehabilitation include paper-and-pencil procedures, which address cognitive functions as isolated from other aspects of patients' functioning within a real-life context. This might compromise the ecological validity of these procedures and limit their generalizability; moreover, USN evaluation and treatment currently lacks a gold standard. The field of technology has provided several promising tools that have been integrated within the clinical practice; over the years, a "first wave" has promoted computerized methods, which cannot provide an ecological and realistic environment and tasks. Thus, a "second wave" has fostered the implementation of virtual reality (VR) devices that, with different degrees of immersiveness, induce a sense of presence and allow patients to actively interact within the life-like setting. The present paper provides an updated, comprehensive picture of VR devices in the assessment and rehabilitation of USN, building on the review of Pedroli et al. (2015). The present paper analyzes the methodological and technological aspects of the studies selected, considering the issue of usability and ecological validity of virtual environments and tasks. Despite the technological advancement, the studies in this field lack methodological rigor as well as a proper evaluation of VR usability and should improve the ecological validity of VR-based assessment and rehabilitation of USN.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Cavedoni
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Lab, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - P. Cipresso
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Lab, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Via Verdi, 10, 10124 Turin, TO Italy
| | - V. Mancuso
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
| | - F. Bruni
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
| | - E. Pedroli
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Lab, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
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Umeonwuka CI, Roos R, Ntsiea V. Current knowledge and practice of post-stroke unilateral spatial neglect rehabilitation: A cross-sectional survey of South African neurorehabilitation physiotherapists. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOTHERAPY 2022; 78:1624. [PMID: 35402745 PMCID: PMC8991368 DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v78i1.1624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) affects the rehabilitation process leading to poor functional outcomes after stroke. South African physiotherapists' level of uptake of available evidence in USN rehabilitation and the barriers they encounter are not known. Objectives To evaluate knowledge, current practice enablers and barriers to USN management in stroke survivors amongst physiotherapists in South Africa. Methods Our cross-sectional survey used a total sampling technique. Questionnaires were sent to neurorehabilitation physiotherapists in South Africa. Descriptive and inferential statistics analysed the data. Results The overall knowledge score of USN was 14.11 ± 5.23 of a total of 25. The knowledge was good for definitions of USN; moderate for incidences, causes, screening, diagnosis and prognosis of USN and poor for pharmacological approaches to the management of USN. A significant low positive correlation between respondents' age (r = 0.46; p = 0.016) and years of practice as a physiotherapist (r = 0.43; p = 0.026) and knowledge of USN was found. The most frequently utilised intervention was constraint-induced movement therapy; the commonly utilised assessment tool was the comb and razor test. 'Inadequate therapy time' (55.56%) and 'lack of relevant equipment for rehabilitation of USN' (38.89%) were identified as major barriers to USN rehabilitation. Major enablers to USN rehabilitation were the 'presence of multidisciplinary stroke team in clinical practice' (83.35%) and 'availability of adequate staff' (76.47%). Conclusion Physiotherapists demonstrated a fair knowledge of USN although knowledge about pharmacological management of USN was modest. Current practice in post-stroke USN by South African neuro-physiotherapists follows current evidence and practice guidelines. Clinical implication Our study shows the level of knowledge and current practice of post-stroke USN rehabilitation. The demonstrated fair knowledge of USN may be improved through training, curriculum modifications or continuing professional development. Identified barriers to the rehabilitation of post-stroke USN can assist health policy, managers and clinicians to improve stroke-specific care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuka I Umeonwuka
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ronel Roos
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Veronica Ntsiea
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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From Patient to Musician: A Multi-Sensory Virtual Reality Rehabilitation Tool for Spatial Neglect. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12031242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Unilateral Spatial Neglect (USN) commonly results from a stroke or acquired brain injury. USN affects multiple modalities and results in failure to respond to stimuli on the contralesional side of space. Although USN is a heterogeneous syndrome, present-day therapy methods often fail to consider multiple modalities. Musical Neglect Therapy (MNT) is a therapy method that succeeds in incorporating multiple modalities by asking patients to make music. This research aimed to exploit the immersive and modifiable aspect of VR to translate MNT to a VR therapy tool. The tool was evaluated in a 2-week pilot study with four clinical users. These results are compared to a control group of four non-clinical users. Results indicated that patients responded to triggers in their entire environment and performance results could be clearly differentiated between clinical and non-clinical users. Moreover, patients increasingly corrected their head direction towards their neglected side. Patients stated that the use of VR increased their enjoyment of the therapy. This study contributes to the current research on rehabilitation for USN by proposing the first system to apply MNT in a VR environment. The tool shows promise as an addition to currently used rehabilitation methods. However, results are limited to a small sample size and performance metrics. Future work will focus on validating these results with a larger sample over a longer period. Moreover, future efforts should explore personalisation and gamification to tailor to the heterogeneity of the condition.
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Chen P, Krch D. Immersive virtual reality treatment for spatial neglect: An agile, user-centered development process. Ann Phys Rehabil Med 2021; 65:101592. [PMID: 34662734 DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2021.101592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peii Chen
- Center for Stroke Rehabilitation Research, Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA.
| | - Denise Krch
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA; Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research, Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
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Considerations and practical protocols for using virtual reality in psychological research and practice, as evidenced through exposure-based therapy. Behav Res Methods 2021; 53:2725-2742. [PMID: 34080173 DOI: 10.3758/s13428-021-01543-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Everyday client stressors are often challenging to replicate in clinical and research environments, which hinders the ability to reliably reproduce clinical outcomes. To overcome this obstacle, tools that can bridge the inherent disconnect between these settings and the real-world experiences of clients are urgently needed. Virtual reality (VR) promises to provide immersive experiences within controlled laboratory or clinical settings. While the potential opportunities and challenges of VR applications have been scientifically reviewed, clinical adoptions into psychology are hampered by a paucity of practical and methodological publications. This paper intends to address that gap, by providing a four-step process for decision-making considerations, including practical recommendations and an applied case study of developing an exposure-based system for obsessive-compulsive disorder. We provide a framework to make VR accessible for clinician-researchers to create similar systems that realise the promise while encouraging ongoing scientific rigour.
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Morse H, Biggart L, Pomeroy V, Rossit S. Exploring perspectives from stroke survivors, carers and clinicians on virtual reality as a precursor to using telerehabilitation for spatial neglect post-stroke. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2020; 32:707-731. [PMID: 32942950 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2020.1819827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Spatial neglect is a common and severe cognitive consequence of stroke, yet there is currently no effective rehabilitation tool. Virtual Reality (VR) telerehabilitation tools have the potential to provide multisensory and enjoyable therapies and remotely monitor adherence without the presence of a therapist at all times. Researchers and industry need to better understand end-user perspectives about these technologies to ensure these are acceptable and, ultimately, optimize adherence and efficacy. This study aims to explore end-user perspectives on the use of self-administered VR for spatial neglect in a university environment to identify barriers and facilitators prior to extending its use remotely as a telerehabilitation tool. We used a mixed-method design including focus groups, self-administered questionnaires and interviews with stroke survivors (N = 7), their carers (N = 3) and stroke clinicians (N = 6). End-user perspectives identified clarity of instructions, equipment (cost, available resources) and for some, level of experience with technology as barriers of use. Perceived facilitators were performance feedback, engagement and enjoyment, and psychological benefits associated with self-administered VR telerehabilitation. Overall, end-users were positive and interested in using VR telerehabilitation for spatial neglect. These perspectives enabled us to produce practical recommendations to inform development, enhance engagement and uptake of VR telerehabilitation and inform future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Morse
- School of Psychology, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.,Acquired Brain Injury Rehabilitaion Alliance, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Laura Biggart
- School of Psychology, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Valerie Pomeroy
- Acquired Brain Injury Rehabilitaion Alliance, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.,School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Brain Injury MedTech Co-operative, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stéphanie Rossit
- School of Psychology, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.,Acquired Brain Injury Rehabilitaion Alliance, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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Barriers, Facilitators and Interventions to Support Virtual Reality Implementation in Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review. PM R 2019; 10:1237-1251.e1. [PMID: 30503231 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Virtual reality and active video games (VR/AVGs) are promising rehabilitation tools because of their potential to facilitate abundant, motivating, and feedback-rich practice. However, clinical adoption remains low despite a growing evidence base and the recent development of clinically accessible and rehabilitation-specific VR/AVG systems. Given clinicians' eagerness for resources to support VR/AVG use, a critical need exists for knowledge translation (KT) interventions to facilitate VR/AVG integration into clinical practice. KT interventions have the potential to support adoption by targeting known barriers to, and facilitators of, change. This scoping review of the VR/AVG literature uses the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to (1) structure an overview of known barriers and facilitators to clinical uptake of VR/AVGs for rehabilitation; (2) identify KT strategies to target these factors to facilitate adoption; and (3) report the results of these strategies. Barriers/facilitators and evaluated or proposed KT interventions spanned all but 1 and 2 TDF domains, respectively. Most frequently cited barriers/facilitators were found in the TDF domains of Knowledge, Skills, Beliefs About Capabilities, Beliefs About Consequences, Intentions, Goals, Environmental Context and Resources, and Social Influences. Few studies empirically evaluated KT interventions to support adoption; measured change in VR/AVG use did not accompany improvements in self-reported skills, attitudes, and knowledge. Recommendations to target frequently identified barriers include technology development to meet end-user needs more effectively, competency development for end-users, and facilitated VR/AVG implementation in clinical settings. Subsequent research can address knowledge gaps in both clinical and VR/AVG implementation research, including on KT intervention effectiveness and unexamined TDF domain barriers. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.
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Ogourtsova T, Archambault P, Sangani S, Lamontagne A. Ecological Virtual Reality Evaluation of Neglect Symptoms (EVENS): Effects of Virtual Scene Complexity in the Assessment of Poststroke Unilateral Spatial Neglect. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2018; 32:46-61. [DOI: 10.1177/1545968317751677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background. Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is a highly prevalent and disabling poststroke impairment. USN is traditionally assessed with paper-and-pencil tests that lack ecological validity, generalization to real-life situations and are easily compensated for in chronic stages. Virtual reality (VR) can, however, counteract these limitations. Objective. We aimed to examine the feasibility of a novel assessment of USN symptoms in a functional shopping activity, the Ecological VR-based Evaluation of Neglect Symptoms (EVENS). Methods. EVENS is immersive and consists of simple and complex 3-dimensional scenes depicting grocery shopping shelves, where joystick-based object detection and navigation tasks are performed while seated. Effects of virtual scene complexity on navigational and detection abilities in patients with (USN+, n = 12) and without (USN−, n = 15) USN following a right hemisphere stroke and in age-matched healthy controls (HC, n = 9) were determined. Results. Longer detection times, larger mediolateral deviations from ideal paths and longer navigation times were found in USN+ versus USN− and HC groups, particularly in the complex scene. EVENS detected lateralized and nonlateralized USN-related deficits, performance alterations that were dependent or independent of USN severity, and performance alterations in 3 USN− subjects versus HC. Conclusion. EVENS’ environmental changing complexity, along with the functional tasks of far space detection and navigation can potentially be clinically relevant and warrant further empirical investigation. Findings are discussed in terms of attentional models, lateralized versus nonlateralized deficits in USN, and tasks-specific mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Ogourtsova
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Philippe Archambault
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samir Sangani
- Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anouk Lamontagne
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, Laval, Quebec, Canada
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