Effect of cognitive rehabilitation on outcomes for persons with traumatic brain injury: A systematic review

J Head Trauma Rehabil. 1999 Jun;14(3):277-307. doi: 10.1097/00001199-199906000-00008.

Abstract

We evaluated evidence for the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation methods to improve outcomes for persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI). A search of MEDLINE, HealthSTAR, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library produced 600 potential references. Thirty-two studies met predetermined inclusion criteria and were abstracted; data from 24 were placed into evidence tables. Two randomized controlled trials and one observational study provided evidence that specific forms of cognitive rehabilitation reduce memory failures and anxiety, and improve self-concept and interpersonal relationships for persons with TBI. The durability and clinical relevance of these findings is not established. Future research utilizing control groups and multivariate analysis must incorporate subject variability and must include standard definitions of the intervention and relevant outcome measures that reflect health and function.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries / rehabilitation*
  • Cognition Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / standards*
  • Humans
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Research Design* / standards
  • Treatment Outcome