The transfer of scanning training effects in visual inattention after stroke: five single-case studies

The transfer effects of scanning training of right-brain-damaged stroke patients with visual inattention have been studied. Five patients were treated according to a B-C-B-D design. The first B phase lasted for 2, 4, or 6 weeks, whereas the other intervention phases had a fixed duration of 2 weeks. During all phases physical therapy was given. Additionally, occupational therapy was applied during the B phases, training on a scanning apparatus during the C phase, and training on reading tasks during the D phase. At least three times in each intervention phase, performance was measured using a computerized visual scanning test, a line bisection test, and a letter cancellation test. In addition, wheelchair navigation was assessed. For four out of the five patients a significant positive effect of visual scanning training on visual scanning behaviour was found. This effect, however, appeared to be restricted to the task which was specifically trained. Over the group as a whole no evidence could be found for any transfer of visual scanning training effects to the domain of gross motor skills.