Selective and Integrated Rehabilitation Programs for Disturbances of Visual/Spatial Attention and Executive Function After Brain Damage: A Neuropsychological Evidence-Based Review
European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
Zoccolotti, P., Cantagallo, A., et al. (2011).
European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, 47(1), 123-147.
This systematic review investigates the effect of rehabilitation programs on visual-spatial attentional dysfunction and executive function disorders in adults with non-degenerative brain lesions included nontraumatic and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Not stated
Up to 2007
Published experimental studies; reviews; meta-analyses
12 studies (part I); 15 studies (part II); 17 studies (part III); 9 studies (part IV)
<div>Findings suggest that visuo-spatial orientation treatment (e.g., visual scanning exercises, reading-based scanning exercises, figure naming and copying) are effective in remediating visual neglect in individuals with acquired brain injury, however, the generalizability of gains is not known (Level A Evidence). <br><br><br><br></div>
<div>There was limited evidence to support the use of neuropsychological rehabilitation in adults with mild traumatic brain injury (Grade B Evidence). The authors suggest that "the quantity and quality of research is still too scarce to allow us to draw sound conclusions" (p. 139). Additional research is warranted.</div>
<div>Findings suggest that attention interventions (e.g., Attention Process Training) are associated with improved attention in individuals with traumatic brain injury, "particularly when rehabilitative trainings are tailored on patients' neuropsychological profile and when treatments are based on strategic approaches rather than on repeated execution of specific tasks" (p. 126; Grade A Evidence). <br><br>Limitations to these findings include methodological weaknesses and a lack of long-term follow-up. </div>
<div>Evidence for executive function rehabilitation overall was variable. However, there was limited evidence to support the use of external supports (e.g., electronic planner) and treatment aimed at improving planning. There was some evidence to support generalizability of gains (Grade A and B Evidence). </div>
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<div>Limitations to these findings include methodological weaknesses of included studies and a lack of long-term follow-up. </div>
