New protocol for early robot-assisted gait training after spinal surgery.
Sanghyun Jee1, Chan Woong Jang2,3, Sang Hoon Shin1
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Rehabilitation Institute of Neuromuscular Disease, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Frontiers in Medicine
|November 7, 2024
Summary
Early robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) significantly improved post-spinal surgery patients' functional outcomes and satisfaction. Physical therapists found RAGT safe but noted limited impact on their work environment, suggesting protocol refinement for broader integration.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Robotics in Healthcare
- Spinal Surgery Recovery
Background:
- Early rehabilitation is crucial for spinal surgery recovery.
- Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) shows potential but lacks standardized protocols.
- Assessing RAGT's impact on patients and therapists is necessary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel early RAGT protocol's effect on post-spinal surgery patients.
- To measure functional improvements and patient satisfaction with RAGT.
- To assess physical therapists' satisfaction and perceived impact of RAGT.
Main Methods:
- Protocol development involved physiatrists and physical therapists.
- A cross-sectional study included 32 post-spinal surgery patients and 5 physical therapists.
- Outcomes measured included Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), Modified Barthel Index (MBI) ambulation, and satisfaction surveys.
Main Results:
- RAGT, initiated ~18 days post-op, showed no adverse effects.
- Significant improvements observed in FAC (2.65 to 3.78) and MBI ambulation (7.69 to 10.66).
- Patients reported high satisfaction with reduced fear of falling; therapists rated RAGT stability highly.
Conclusions:
- Early RAGT enhances functional recovery and patient satisfaction post-spinal surgery.
- RAGT is perceived as safe by physical therapists, though its workplace impact is minimal.
- Further protocol refinement and robot customization are recommended for RAGT integration.
