Rassovsky Y, Satz P, Alfano MS, Light RK, Zaucha K, McArthur DL, Hovda D. Functional Outcome in TBI II: Verbal Memory and Information Processing Speed Mediators.
J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2007;
28:581-91. [PMID:
16624785 DOI:
10.1080/13803390500434474]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Following traumatic brain injury (TBI), patients often report memory difficulties, as well as reduced information processing speed. However, it remains unclear the extent to which these deficits contribute to functional impairment. In the present study, we compared the relative contribution of verbal memory and information processing speed to functional impairment at 12-month post-injury, in 87 patients with moderate-to-severe TBI. Employing structural equation modeling, we found that information processing speed, but not verbal memory functions, significantly mediated the relationship between TBI severity and post-TBI adaptive functioning. These findings suggest that despite the pervasive memory complaints among patients with TBI, it is the impact of neurotrauma on frontal systems that appears to be primarily responsible for patients' difficulties in social and occupational functioning.
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