Immersive Virtual Reality in Dysphagia after Stroke
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Immersive Virtual Reality for Dysphagia Treatment after Stroke
IRAS ID
307429
Contact name
Ivan Phelan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Hallam University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Oropharyngeal Dysphagia (OD) is a swallowing disorder, commonly experienced after stroke. When someone has OD it takes them more time and effort to move food or liquid safely from their mouth to their stomach. This disorder has various effects which affect well-being and result in reduced quality of life for the individual.
This project aims to develop bespoke Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) scenarios interfaced with a strain gauge to support effective rehabilitation for OD patients.In this clinical feasibility trial, ten patients will be recruited and each will use the VR intervention in five Speech and Language Therapy appointments on successive weekdays.
On each trial day, the patient will wear a VR headset and a soft-collared strain gauge around the neck. The VR experience is delivered via the headset and the strain gauge will measure the extent and number of swallows.
When using the VR, the patient will use their swallow to control a virtual avatar and engage in interactive games, such as shooting basketballs. The Speech and Language Therapy sessions during the trial will be of a very similar duration to patient's usual therapy sessions.
It is anticipated that the VR system will prove useful in enhancing the re-education of the swallowing muscles, making swallowing safer and more effective. An important outcome of this feasibility trial, however, is the experience and perception of the VR system users - the patients and Speech and Language Therapy staff who support them.
Therefore, after completing all five VR experiences, patients will be asked some short questions about their experiences. Staff who are involved in facilitating the Speech and Language Therapy sessions and helping the patient use the system will also participate in interviews after all ten patient trials are complete.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/YH/0066
Date of REC Opinion
21 Mar 2022
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion