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De Luca R, Gangemi A, Bonanno M, Fabio RA, Cardile D, Maggio MG, Rifici C, Vermiglio G, Di Ciuccio D, Messina A, Quartarone A, Calabrò RS. Improving Neuroplasticity through Robotic Verticalization Training in Patients with Minimally Conscious State: A Retrospective Study. Brain Sci 2024; 14:319. [PMID: 38671971 PMCID: PMC11048571 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040319] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In disorders of consciousness, verticalization is considered an effective type of treatment to improve motor and cognitive recovery. Our purpose is to investigate neurophysiological effects of robotic verticalization training (RVT) in patients with minimally conscious state (MCS). Thirty subjects affected by MCS due to traumatic or vascular brain injury, attending the intensive Neurorehabilitation Unit of the IRCCS Neurolesi (Messina, Italy), were included in this retrospective study. They were equally divided into two groups: the control group (CG) received traditional verticalization with a static bed and the experimental group (EG) received advanced robotic verticalization using the Erigo device. Each patient was evaluated using both clinical scales, including Levels of Cognitive Functioning (LCF) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and quantitative EEG pre (T0) and post each treatment (T1). The treatment lasted for eight consecutive weeks, and sessions were held three times a week, in addition to standard neurorehabilitation. In addition to a notable improvement in clinical parameters, such as functional (FIM) (p < 0.01) and cognitive (LCF) (p < 0.01) outcomes, our findings showed a significant modification in alpha and beta bands post-intervention, underscoring the promising effect of the Erigo device to influence neural plasticity and indicating a noteworthy difference between pre-post intervention. This was not observed in the CG. The observed changes in alpha and beta bands underscore the potential of the Erigo device to induce neural plasticity. The device's custom features and programming, tailored to individual patient needs, may contribute to its unique impact on brain responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria De Luca
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Antonio Gangemi
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Mirjam Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Rosa Angela Fabio
- Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy;
| | - Davide Cardile
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Maria Grazia Maggio
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Carmela Rifici
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Giuliana Vermiglio
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Daniela Di Ciuccio
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Angela Messina
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (A.G.); (D.C.); (M.G.M.); (C.R.); (G.V.); (D.D.C.); (A.M.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
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Therapies to Restore Consciousness in Patients with Severe Brain Injuries: A Gap Analysis and Future Directions. Neurocrit Care 2021; 35:68-85. [PMID: 34236624 PMCID: PMC8266715 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01227-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background/Objective For patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) and their families, the search for new therapies has been a source of hope and frustration. Almost all clinical trials in patients with DoC have been limited by small sample sizes, lack of placebo groups, and use of heterogeneous outcome measures. As a result, few therapies have strong evidence to support their use; amantadine is the only therapy recommended by current clinical guidelines, specifically for patients with DoC caused by severe traumatic brain injury. To foster and advance development of consciousness-promoting therapies for patients with DoC, the Curing Coma Campaign convened a Coma Science Work Group to perform a gap analysis. Methods We consider five classes of therapies: (1) pharmacologic; (2) electromagnetic; (3) mechanical; (4) sensory; and (5) regenerative. For each class of therapy, we summarize the state of the science, identify gaps in knowledge, and suggest future directions for therapy development. Results Knowledge gaps in all five therapeutic classes can be attributed to the lack of: (1) a unifying conceptual framework for evaluating therapeutic mechanisms of action; (2) large-scale randomized controlled trials; and (3) pharmacodynamic biomarkers that measure subclinical therapeutic effects in early-phase trials. To address these gaps, we propose a precision medicine approach in which clinical trials selectively enroll patients based upon their physiological receptivity to targeted therapies, and therapeutic effects are measured by complementary behavioral, neuroimaging, and electrophysiologic endpoints. Conclusions This personalized approach can be realized through rigorous clinical trial design and international collaboration, both of which will be essential for advancing the development of new therapies and ultimately improving the lives of patients with DoC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12028-021-01227-y.
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Peterson M, Eapen BC, Himmler M, Galhotra P, Glazer D. Evolution of Care for the Veterans and Active Duty Service Members with Disorders of Consciousness. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2018; 30:29-41. [PMID: 30470427 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The Veteran Health Administration Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center Emerging Consciousness Program (ECP) has served veterans and service members with disorders of consciousness (DOC) over the past 10 years. The ECP has evolved to meet the unique needs of this patient population, including updating admission criteria to follow evidence-based guidelines for the management of DOC, expanding the use of treatment modalities, and monitoring longitudinal outcomes. The authors review current assessment tools, medical management, and interventions and describe the current state of the ECP and how the evolution of the ECP has enhanced the care of veterans and service members with DOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Peterson
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (4K), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA.
| | - Blessen C Eapen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, 11301 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Mary Himmler
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center (4K), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
| | - Pawan Galhotra
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue (PSC 117), Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - David Glazer
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
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Descriptive Findings of the VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers TBI Model Systems National Database. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 99:952-959. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2017.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Hamilton JA, Perrin PB, Campbell TA, Danish SJ, Goldstein AL. Predicting emergence from a disorder of consciousness using the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2018; 30:266-280. [PMID: 29661098 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2018.1461656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study explored the utility of the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) in predicting emergence from a disorder of consciousness, using a sample of veterans who were treated at one of the five Veterans Affairs (VA) polytrauma rehabilitation centre sites in an Emerging Consciousness programme. Participants (N = 70) included both combat and non-combat active duty military personnel and veterans who sustained either a severe traumatic brain injury, or anoxic brain injury and were considered to have a disorder of consciousness at the time of admission. Patient information was retrospectively collected from electronic medical records from one of the VA polytrauma rehabilitation centre sites. Receiver Operator Characteristic models were utilised to explore "cut-off scores" for predicting emergence using the CRS-R. Results showed that week-three scores on the CRS-R were more accurate in determining whether a veteran would emerge from a disorder of consciousness. Limitations, including a limited sample size are explored, along with implications and recommendations for future research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul B Perrin
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Steven J Danish
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Span-Sluyter CAMFH, Lavrijsen JCM, van Leeuwen E, Koopmans RTCM. Moral dilemmas and conflicts concerning patients in a vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome: shared or non-shared decision making? A qualitative study of the professional perspective in two moral case deliberations. BMC Med Ethics 2018; 19:10. [PMID: 29471814 PMCID: PMC5824545 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-018-0247-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients in a vegetative state/ unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (VS/UWS) pose ethical dilemmas to those involved. Many conflicts occur between professionals and families of these patients. In the Netherlands physicians are supposed to withdraw life sustaining treatment once recovery is not to be expected. Yet these patients have shown to survive sometimes for decades. The role of the families is thought to be important. The aim of this study was to make an inventory of the professional perspective on conflicts in long-term care of patients in VS/UWS. Methods A qualitative study of transcripts on 2 Moral Deliberations (MD’s) in 2 cases of patients in VS/UWS in long-term care facilities. Results Six themes emerged: 1) Vision on VS/UWS; 2) Treatment and care plan; 3) Impact on relationships; 4) Feelings/attitude; 5) Communication; 6) Organizational aspects. These themes are related to professionals and to what families had expressed to the professionals. We found conflicts as well as contradictory feelings and thoughts to be a general feature in 4 of these themes, both in professionals and families. Conflicts were found in several actors: within families concerning all 6 themes, in nurse teams concerning the theme treatment and care plan, and between physicians concerning all 6 themes. Conclusions Different visions, different expectations and hope on recovery, deviating goals and contradictory feelings/thoughts in families and professionals can lead to conflicts over a patient with VS/UWS. Key factors to prevent or solve such conflicts are a carefully established diagnosis, clarity upon visions, uniformity in treatment goals and plans, an open and empathic communication, expertise and understanding the importance of contradictory feelings/thoughts. Management should bridge conflicts and support their staff, by developing expertise, by creating stability and by facilitating medical ethical discourses. Shared compassion for the patient might be a key to gain trust and bridge the differences from non-shared to shared decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conny A M F H Span-Sluyter
- Radboud University Medical Centre, department of primary care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. .,Novicare, Professionals in Elderly Care, Best, the Netherlands.
| | - Jan C M Lavrijsen
- Radboud University Medical Centre, department of primary care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Raymond T C M Koopmans
- Radboud University Medical Centre, department of primary care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Joachim en Anna, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Bradley M, Nealeigh M, Oh JS, Rothberg P, Elster EA, Rich NM. Combat casualty care and lessons learned from the past 100 years of war. Curr Probl Surg 2017; 54:315-351. [PMID: 28595716 DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Bradley
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Matthew Nealeigh
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - John S Oh
- Division of Global Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Philip Rothberg
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Eric A Elster
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Norman M Rich
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD; Division of Global Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD; Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
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Lancioni GE, Singh NN, O'Reilly MF, Sigafoos J, D'Amico F, Buonocunto F, Navarro J, Lanzilotti C, Fiore P, Megna M, Damiani S. Assistive technology to help persons in a minimally conscious state develop responding and stimulation control: Performance assessment and social rating. NeuroRehabilitation 2016; 37:393-403. [PMID: 26518532 DOI: 10.3233/nre-151269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-coma persons in a minimally conscious state (MCS) and with extensive motor impairment and lack of speech tend to be passive and isolated. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to (a) further assess a technology-aided approach for fostering MCS participants' responding and stimulation control and (b) carry out a social validation check about the approach. METHODS Eight MCS participants were exposed to the aforementioned approach according to an ABAB design. The technology included optic, pressure or touch microswitches to monitor eyelid, hand or finger responses and a computer system that allowed those responses to produce brief periods of positive stimulation during the B (intervention) phases of the study. Eighty-four university psychology students and 42 care and health professionals were involved in the social validation check. RESULTS The MCS participants showed clear increases in their response frequencies, thus producing increases in their levels of environmental stimulation input, during the B phases of the study. The students and care and health professionals involved in the social validation check rated the technology-aided approach more positively than a control condition in which stimulation was automatically presented to the participants. CONCLUSIONS A technology-aided approach to foster responding and stimulation control in MCS persons may be effective and socially desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nirbhay N Singh
- Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jorge Navarro
- S. Raffaele Rehabilitation Center, Ceglie Messapica, Italy
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Edlow BL, Rosenthal ES. Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Advanced Imaging in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. CURRENT TRAUMA REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40719-015-0018-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Lancioni GE, Singh NN, O'Reilly MF, Sigafoos J, Olivetti Belardinelli M, Buonocunto F, D'Amico F, Navarro J, Lanzilotti C, Ferlisi G, Denitto F. Technology-aided programs for post-coma patients emerged from or in a minimally conscious state. Front Hum Neurosci 2014; 8:931. [PMID: 25538593 PMCID: PMC4257021 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-coma persons in a minimally conscious state (MCS) or emerged/emerging from such state (E-MCS), who are affected by extensive motor impairment and lack of speech, may develop an active role and interact with their environment with the help of technology-aided intervention programs. Although a number of studies have been conducted in this area during the last few years, new evidence about the efficacy of those programs is warranted. These three studies were an effort in that direction. Study I assessed a technology-aided program to enable six MCS participants to access preferred environmental stimulation independently. Studies II and III assessed technology-aided programs to enable six E-MCS participants to make choices. In Study II, three of those participants were led to choose among leisure and social stimuli, and caregiver interventions automatically presented to them. In Study III, the remaining three participants were led to choose (a) among general stimulus/intervention options (e.g., songs, video-recordings of family members, and caregiver interventions); and then (b) among variants of those options. The results of all three studies were largely positive with substantial increases of independent stimulation access for the participants of Study I and independent choice behavior for the participants of Studies II and III. The results were analyzed in relation to previous data and in terms of their implications for daily contexts working with MCS and E-MCS persons affected by multiple disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio E Lancioni
- Department of Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Bari, Italy
| | - Nirbhay N Singh
- Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Mark F O'Reilly
- Department of Special Education, University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jeff Sigafoos
- Department of Educational Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | | | - Fiora D'Amico
- S. Raffaele Rehabilitation and Care Centers Ceglie and Alberobello, Italy
| | - Jorge Navarro
- S. Raffaele Rehabilitation and Care Centers Ceglie and Alberobello, Italy
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Lancioni GE, Singh NN, O'Reilly MF, Sigafoos J, Buonocunto F, D'Amico F, Navarro J, Lanzilotti C, Megna M. Occupation and communication programs for post-coma persons with or without consciousness disorders who show extensive motor impairment and lack of speech. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2014; 35:1110-1118. [PMID: 24582854 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
These two studies were aimed at extending the assessment of technology-aided programs for post-coma persons with extensive motor impairment and lack of speech. Specifically, Study I assessed a new program arrangement, in which stimulation access and caregiver attention could be obtained with variations of the same response (i.e., single- versus double-hand closure) by three participants who were diagnosed at the upper level of the minimally conscious state at the start of the study. Study II was aimed at enabling two persons who had emerged from a minimally conscious state to engage in leisure activities, listen to audio-recordings of family members, and send and receive messages. The responses selected for these participants were hand pressure and eyelid closure, respectively. The results of both studies were positive. The participants of Study I increased their responding to increase their stimulation input and caregiver interaction. The participants of Study II managed to successfully select all the options the program included (i.e., the leisure options, as well as the family and communication options). General implications of the programs and the related technology packages for intervention with post-coma persons with multiple disabilities are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nirbhay N Singh
- Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, USA
| | | | | | | | - Fiora D'Amico
- S. Raffaele Rehabilitation Center, Ceglie Messapica, Italy
| | - Jorge Navarro
- S. Raffaele Rehabilitation Center, Ceglie Messapica, Italy
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Development of a Traumatic Brain Injury Model System Within the Department of Veterans Affairs Polytrauma System of Care. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2014; 29:E1-7. [DOI: 10.1097/htr.0b013e31829a64d1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
Advances in task-based functional MRI (fMRI), resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI), and arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion MRI have occurred at a rapid pace in recent years. These techniques for measuring brain function have great potential to improve the accuracy of prognostication for civilian and military patients with traumatic coma. In addition, fMRI, rs-fMRI, and ASL perfusion MRI have provided novel insights into the pathophysiology of traumatic disorders of consciousness, as well as the mechanisms of recovery from coma. However, functional neuroimaging techniques have yet to achieve widespread clinical use as prognostic tests for patients with traumatic coma. Rather, a broad spectrum of methodological hurdles currently limits the feasibility of clinical implementation. In this review, we discuss the basic principles of fMRI, rs-fMRI, and ASL perfusion MRI and their potential applications as prognostic tools for patients with traumatic coma. We also discuss future strategies for overcoming the current barriers to clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street - Lunder 650, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Lancioni GE, Bosco A, Olivetti Belardinelli M, Singh NN, O'Reilly MF, Sigafoos J, Oliva D. Technology-based intervention programs to promote stimulation control and communication in post-coma persons with different levels of disability. Front Hum Neurosci 2014; 8:48. [PMID: 24574992 PMCID: PMC3920651 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-coma persons in a minimally conscious state and with extensive motor impairment or emerging/emerged from such a state, but affected by lack of speech and motor impairment, tend to be passive and isolated. A way to help them develop functional responding to control environmental events and communication involves the use of intervention programs relying on assistive technology. This paper provides an overview of technology-based intervention programs for enabling the participants to (a) access brief periods of stimulation through one or two microswitches, (b) pursue stimulation and social contact through the combination of a microswitch and a sensor connected to a speech generating device (SGD) or through two SGD-related sensors, (c) control stimulation options through computer or radio systems and a microswitch, (d) communicate through modified messaging or telephone systems operated via microswitch, and (e) control combinations of leisure and communication options through computer systems operated via microswitch. Twenty-six studies, involving a total of 52 participants, were included in this paper. The intervention programs were carried out using single-subject methodology, and their outcomes were generally considered positive from the standpoint of the participants and their context. Practical implications of the programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio E Lancioni
- Department of Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Bosco
- Department of Educational Science, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari Bari, Italy
| | | | - Nirbhay N Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Mark F O'Reilly
- Department of Special Education, University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jeff Sigafoos
- Department of Educational Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington Wellington, New Zealand
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Disorders of consciousness after acquired brain injury: the state of the science. Nat Rev Neurol 2014; 10:99-114. [PMID: 24468878 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2013.279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 445] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The concept of consciousness continues to defy definition and elude the grasp of philosophical and scientific efforts to formulate a testable construct that maps to human experience. Severe acquired brain injury results in the dissolution of consciousness, providing a natural model from which key insights about consciousness may be drawn. In the clinical setting, neurologists and neurorehabilitation specialists are called on to discern the level of consciousness in patients who are unable to communicate through word or gesture, and to project outcomes and recommend approaches to treatment. Standards of care are not available to guide clinical decision-making for this population, often leading to inconsistent, inaccurate and inappropriate care. In this Review, we describe the state of the science with regard to clinical management of patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness. We review consciousness-altering pathophysiological mechanisms, specific clinical syndromes, and novel diagnostic and prognostic applications of advanced neuroimaging and electrophysiological procedures. We conclude with a provocative discussion of bioethical and medicolegal issues that are unique to this population and have a profound impact on care, as well as raising questions of broad societal interest.
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Whyte J, Nakase-Richardson R. Disorders of consciousness: outcomes, comorbidities, and care needs. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2013; 94:1851-4. [PMID: 23856152 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2013.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Revised: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, research on patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) has suggested that their prognosis for functional recovery early after injury is surprisingly positive, particularly for those with traumatic etiologies; that meaningful recovery proceeds for longer intervals than previously appreciated; and that such individuals are often medically complex and challenging to manage. However, access to intensive specialty rehabilitation is limited for most individuals with DOC in the United States. The evolving understanding of DOC calls for a reconsideration of appropriate models of care. This collection of articles provides insight into the functional recovery of individuals with DOC, new tools for assessing prognosis, and the patterns of comorbidity that complicate the recovery process. In addition, models of care from the United States and Europe that attempt to address the needs of patients as well as their caregivers are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Whyte
- Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, Elkins Park, PA.
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Rehabilitation Care of Combat Related TBI: Veterans Health Administration Polytrauma System of Care. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-013-0023-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Nakase-Richardson R, McNamee S, Howe LL, Massengale J, Peterson M, Barnett SD, Harris O, McCarthy M, Tran J, Scott S, Cifu DX. Descriptive characteristics and rehabilitation outcomes in active duty military personnel and veterans with disorders of consciousness with combat- and noncombat-related brain injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2013; 94:1861-9. [PMID: 23810353 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2013.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the injury and demographic characteristics, medical course, and rehabilitation outcome for a consecutive series of veterans and active duty military personnel with combat- and noncombat-related brain injury and disorder of consciousness (DOC) at the time of rehabilitation admission. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING Rehabilitation center. PARTICIPANTS From January 2004 to October 2009, persons (N=1654) were admitted to the Polytrauma Rehabilitation System of Care. This study focused on the N=122 persons admitted with a DOC. Participants with a DOC were primarily men (96%), on active duty (82%), ≥12 years of education, and a median age of 25. Brain injury etiologies included mixed blast trauma (24%), penetrating (8%), other trauma (56%), and nontrauma (13%). Median initial Glasgow Coma Scale score was 3, and rehabilitation admission Glasgow Coma Scale score was 8. Individuals were admitted for acute neurorehabilitation approximately 51 days postinjury with a median rehabilitation length of stay of 132 days. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Recovery of consciousness and the FIM instrument. RESULTS Most participants emerged to regain consciousness during neurorehabilitation (64%). Average gains ± SD on the FIM cognitive and motor subscales were 19 ± 25 and 7 ± 8, respectively. Common medical complications included spasticity (70%), dysautonomia (34%), seizure occurrence (30%), and intracranial infection (22%). Differential outcomes were observed across etiologies, particularly for those with blast-related brain injury etiology. CONCLUSIONS Despite complex comorbidities, optimistic outcomes were observed. Individuals with severe head injury because of blast-related etiologies have different outcomes and comorbidities observed. Health-services research with a focus on prevention of comorbidities is needed to inform optimal models of care, particularly for combat injured soldiers with blast-related injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Nakase-Richardson
- Mental Health and Behavioral Science Service, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL; Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Center of Excellence for Maximizing Rehabilitation Outcomes, Tampa, FL.
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Seel RT, Douglas J, Dennison AC, Heaner S, Farris K, Rogers C. Specialized early treatment for persons with disorders of consciousness: program components and outcomes. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2013; 94:1908-23. [PMID: 23732166 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2012.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Revised: 11/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe a specialized early treatment program for persons with disorders of consciousness (DOC) that includes family education; to identify rates of secondary conditions, imaging used, and selected interventions; and to evaluate outcomes. DESIGN A single-center, retrospective, pre-post design using electronic medical record data. SETTING A Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited, long-term acute care hospital that provides acute medical and inpatient rehabilitation levels of care for people with catastrophic injuries. PARTICIPANTS Persons (N=210) aged 14 to 69 years with DOC of primarily traumatic etiology admitted at a mean ± SD of 41.0 ± 27.2 days postinjury; 2% were in coma, 41% were in the vegetative state, and 57% were in the minimally conscious state. INTERVENTIONS An acute medical level of care with ≥90 minutes of daily interdisciplinary rehabilitation and didactic and hands-on caretaking education for families. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Coma Recovery Scale-Revised, Modified Ashworth Scale, and discharge disposition. RESULTS Program admission medical acuity included dysautonomia (15%), airway modifications (79%), infections (eg, pneumonia, 16%; urinary tract infection, 14%; blood, 11%), deep vein thrombosis (17%), pressure ulcers (14%), and marked hypertonia (30% in each limb). There were 168 program interruptions (ie, 139 surgeries, 29 nonsurgical intensive care unit transfers). Mean length of stay ± SD was 39.1 ± 29.4 days (range, 6-204d). Patients showed improved consciousness and respiratory function and reduced presence or severity of pressure ulcers and upper extremity hypertonia. At discharge, 54% showed sufficient emergence from a minimally conscious state to transition to mainstream inpatient rehabilitation, and 29% did not emerge but were discharged home to family with ongoing programmatic support; only 13% did not emerge and were institutionalized. CONCLUSIONS Persons with DOC resulting primarily from a traumatic etiology who receive specialized early treatment that includes acute medical care and ≥90 minutes of daily rehabilitation are likely to show improved consciousness and body function; more than half may transition to mainstream inpatient rehabilitation. Families who receive comprehensive education and hands-on training with ongoing follow-up support may be twice as likely to provide care for medically stable persons with DOC in their homes versus nursing facility placement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald T Seel
- Crawford Research Institute or Brain Injury Program, Shepherd Center, Atlanta, GA.
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