VR-based cognitive rehabilitation for children with traumatic brain injuries: Feasibility and safety.
Jiabin Shen, Jennifer P. Lundine, Christine Koterba, Shivika Udaipuria, Tyler Busch, Joseph R. Rausch, Keith Owen Yeates, Roger Crawfis, Henry Xiang, H Gerry Taylor
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of acquired disability in children, who are at risk of significant impairment in executive function (EF). Virtual reality technology provides a novel strategy to offer rich and immersive training content that is both appealing to children and of potential value in improving their daily functioning. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of implementing an innovative VR-based interactive cognitive training (VICT) system for EF rehabilitation designed to meet the developmental and clinical needs of children with TBI. RESEARCH METHOD/DESIGN: A parallel-group random-block randomized controlled trial was conducted among 26 children 7-17 years with TBI, who completed baseline, postintervention, and 2-month follow-up visits. Feasibility was assessed for recruiting children, measuring outcomes, and implementing the intervention. VR satisfaction was assessed via 5-point Likert scales. Safety outcomes included simulator sickness (0-4) and physical exertion (6-20). Preliminary efficacy was assessed by NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery tasks. RESULTS: = .19). Preliminary evidence supported potential efficacy of the intervention, particularly for moderate and severe TBIs. CONCLUSION/IMPLICATIONS: The present study found high feasibility, safety, and preliminary efficacy of the VICT system. Further research is required to fully examine the intervention's efficacy as a possible rehabilitation tool for children with TBI. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).