An evaluation of the feasibility and clinical utility of the Diego™ computer-assisted robotics device for use with people with a cervical spinal cord injury in the acute setting: a mixed method pilot study

摘要

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the feasibility and clinical utility of the Diego™ for people with a cervical spinal cord injury (CSI) in an acute spinal ward. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed methods study included prospective measurement of outcomes and qualitative interviews with participants and health professionals. A 22 day (4.4 weeks Monday to Friday) program incorporating baseline and follow up measurements, 2 × 1-h standard upper limb sessions per week, and 3 × 1-h Diego™ sessions per week were designed for implementation. Participants were assessed on recruitment and at the completion of the program. RESULTS: = 0.028). Qualitative findings from both participants and health professionals indicated that participants experienced psychological benefits using the Diego™. CONCLUSIONS: Some gains in functioning occurred. Further research should include a randomised controlled trial to fully evaluate the effectiveness of the Diego™ in acute settings.