Executive Functions Rehabilitation in Premature Children Using an Adaptive Motion-Interaction Videogame Platform: A...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Premature birth is linked to executive function (EF) deficits, impacting long-term development and academic success.
• These executive function challenges can persist from childhood through adulthood.
• Early intervention is crucial for mitigating the long-term effects of preterm birth on cognitive abilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the Intendu trainer, an adaptive virtual reality platform, in improving executive functions (EF) in preterm children.
• This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to assess the impact of a novel VR intervention on cognitive outcomes.
• The study specifically focused on processing speed as a key indicator of executive function.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with preterm children (born before 36 weeks + 5 days).
• The intervention group received standard care plus sessions with the Intendu VR software.
• The primary outcome measured was the proportion of children achieving a 10-point increase in processing speed quotient (WPPSI-III) after 4 weeks.

Main Results:

• The experimental group using Intendu showed a significantly higher proportion of children reaching the main outcome (56%) compared to the control group (26%) (P=0.049).
• An absolute benefit increase (ABI) of 30% was observed, further supported by intention-to-treat analysis (P=0.022, ABI of 32%).
• These findings suggest a positive short-term effect of the Intendu trainer on processing speed in preterm children.

Conclusions:

• The Intendu brain-trainer demonstrates promising short-term efficacy in enhancing executive functions in preterm children.
• Larger studies with extended follow-up periods are necessary to validate these findings.
• Further research should explore the long-term role of VR technology in supporting cognitive development in preterm populations.