Abstracts

Innovative Use of a Robotic Rehabilitation Glove Combined with Telemedicine to Improve Hand Function in Stroke Patients Living with Focal-onset Epilepsy

Abstract number : 3.496
Submission category : 18. Case Studies
Year : 2024
Submission ID : 1561
Source : www.aesnet.org
Presentation date : 12/9/2024 12:00:00 AM
Published date :

Authors :
Presenting Author: Jonas St. Fleur, BS – Summa Health

Leopoldo Cendejas-Zaragoza, PhD – Summa Health
Charlotte Hooker, – Summa Health, Case Western Reserve University
Marvin Rossi, MD, PhD – Summa Health

Rationale: Over 80% of stroke patients with hemiplegia experience hand dysfunctions, impacting daily activities and quality of life. Robotic devices have shown therapeutic benefits for hand function rehabilitation. Traditional rehabilitation methods often fall short, particularly for patients with moderate to severe impairments. This case report explores the innovative combination of a hand grip robotic rehabilitation-assisted glove and telemedicine, aiming to enhance accessibility, consistency, and effectiveness in stroke rehabilitation, ultimately improving functional recovery and quality of life for stroke patients living with comorbid focal-onset epilepsy.


Methods: Three patients (n=3) with a history of ischemic stroke with comorbid focal-onset epilepsy affecting the left posterior middle cerebral artery branches and left cerebral hemisphere, experienced 3-5 years prior, were studied. All patients had the same lateralization and mechanism before the ischemic stroke. They presented with right-sided hemiparesis. Initial maximum isometric grip strength and muscle activation were measured using a dynamometer and surface EMG electrodes on the flexor carpi radialis. Patients were introduced to a robotic rehabilitation-assisted glove providing guided exercises at 30% strength intensity. Baseline measurements of grip strength and EMG data were recorded and transmitted to the healthcare team via telemedicine.

Results: Initial findings indicated significantly reduced baseline grip strength and decreased muscle activation compared to healthy adults. Patients demonstrated stronger grip compared to 30% assistance with the robotic glove. Over the course of the intervention, gradual increases in grip strength and improved muscle activation patterns were observed, as evidenced by dynamometer data.

Conclusions: The combined use of a robotic rehabilitation-assisted glove and telemedicine provides a flexible and effective approach to stroke rehabilitation. Initial results are promising, showing gradual improvements in grip strength and muscle activation. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to investigate the long-term benefits of such integrated approaches.

Funding: No funding was received for this case report.

Case Studies