Modifying and evaluating efficacy of interactive computerized program using motion tracking technology to improve unilateral neglect in patients with chronic stroke

BACKGROUND: To modify and evaluate the efficacy of a computerized visual perception rehabilitation program using interactive motion tracking technology with unilateral neglect after chronic stroke. METHODS: Study design is single-blinded (analyst-blinded) controlled prospective clinical trial. Subjects are 16 patients with chronic stroke and unilateral neglect for over 6 months and 19 healthy volunteers. We modified our previous program to 9 tasks with built-in scoring system, and the subjects performed 3 sessions per week, 30 minutes per session for 4 weeks. RESULTS: Scores for the Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Motor-free Visual Perception Test (MVPT), Line bisection test, Star cancellation test, Forward Digit Test, and Backward Digit Test showed significant improvement at the end of the sessions in the patient group. By comparing the parameters of built-in scoring system of each task among the control group, the first session of training in the patient group, and the last session of training in the patient group, we categorized the parameters for optional measurement to determine the effect of training or to be a candidate for evaluative use. CONCLUSIONS: Our modified computerized visual perception rehabilitation program using improved unilateral neglect in patients post-stroke. Built-in scoring system in this program was helpful to assess availability of it more objectively.