Use of novel virtual reality system for the assessment and treatment of unilateral spatial neglect: A feasibility study

Abstract

This paper reports the outcome and feasibility of using a novel virtual reality system, SeeMe, for the assessment and treatment of unilateral spatial neglect following stroke in a recovered post-stroke subject with residual symptoms of unilateral spatial neglect (USN). The subject received 8 weekly treatment sessions. Outcome measures included the Short Feedback Questionnaire, standard paper and pencil tests and the assessment procedure of the SeeMe system itself. The tests were done on the first and last treatment days. The paper and pencil tests were normal while the SeeMe system showed a clear difference between movement times in the right and left hemispace. Following treatment, the subject showed improved movement times to the left hemispace and also showed functional gains. The subject did not experience any discomfort such as nausea or dizziness while using the system. This initial pilot study indicates that the SeeMe virtual reality system has the potential to be used in clinical settings in order to assess and treat USN. A full clinical trial is necessary in order to examine this premise.