Neurophysiological and Psychometric Outcomes in Minimal Consciousness State after Advanced Audio–Video Emotional Stimulation: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

In the last ten years, technological innovations have led to the development of new, advanced sensory stimulation (SS) tools, such as PC-based rehabilitative programs or virtual reality training. These are meant to stimulate residual cognitive abilities and, at the same time, assess cognition and awareness, also in patients with a minimally conscious state (MCS). Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical and neurophysiological effects of multi-sensory and emotional stimulation provided by Neurowave in patients with MCS, as compared to a conventional SS treatment. The psychological status of their caregivers was also monitored. In this retrospective study, we have included forty-two MCS patients and their caregivers. Each MCS subject was included in either the control group (CG), receiving a conventional SS, or the experimental group (EG), who was submitted to the experimental training with the Neurowave. They were assessed before (T0) and after the training (T1) through a specific clinical battery, including both motor and cognitive outcomes. Moreover, in the EG, we also monitored the brain electrophysiological activity (EEG and P300). In both study groups (EG and CG), the psychological caregiver’s aspects, including anxiety levels, were measured using the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). The intra-group analysis (T0-T1) of the EG showed statistical significances in all patients’ outcome measures, while in the CG, we found statistical significances in consciousness and awareness outcomes. The inter-group analysis between the EG and the CG showed no statistical differences, except for global communication skills. In conclusion, the multi-sensory stimulation approach through Neurowave was found to be an innovative rehabilitation treatment, also allowing the registration of brain activity during treatment.

Improving Neuroplasticity through Robotic Verticalization Training in Patients with Minimally Conscious State: A Retrospective Study

“…The Group X Phase interaction emphasized that these differences were influenced by the type of intervention (Erigo vs. Control), highlighting the specific impact of each intervention on cognitive functioning and overall functional independence in MCS patients. These results are in line with our previous study, in which we found that RVT alone or plus music stimulation [15] improved the overall cognitive functioning, tested with LCF. Frazzitta et al (2016) [46] found that patients with DoC improved their global functioning tested with Coma recovery scale (CSR-r) after RVT with Erigo, although scores in LCF at post-treatment were not significant.…”

“…In this context, among the non-pharmacological therapies, early intensive neurorehabilitation combining physical, occupational, speech, and neuropsychological therapy appears to improve long-term functional recovery [12][13][14][15][16]. Specialized rehabilitation protocols for DoC individuals are essential for improving recovery and long-term care.…”

The Role of Immersive Virtual Reality Interventions in Pediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review across Motor and Cognitive Domains

“…Many children with CP experience rigidity or weakness in muscles that tends inevitably towards fixed or irreversible deformities. The impairment of muscle activation and motor control has a negative impact on the performance of daily activities such as dressing, feeding, and playing, as well as on cognition [6]. Currently, CP stands as the leading cause of childhood disability.…”