Biofeedback Training for Hemianopia
This study explores a special type of brain training called biofeedback for people who have vision loss in half of their visual field (hemianopia) due to a brain injury. This can happen after a stroke or other brain damage. The training involves five 20-minute sessions where lights and sounds are used to gently stimulate the brain. The goal is to encourage the brain to make the best use of the healthy parts of the visual field that are still working. We want to see if this training can improve a person's vision and their overall quality of life. Participants will have their vision checked and complete questionnaires before and after the training to measure any changes.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone has a brain injury, like from a stroke or an accident, it can sometimes affect their vision. A common problem is called hemianopia, which means losing sight in one half of what they would normally see. This can make everyday things like reading, walking around, and doing daily tasks much harder. For example, people might find it difficult to explore their surroundings with their eyes, or they might struggle to read because they can't see all the words properly. This can be really frustrating and stop them from getting back to their usual activities.
Traditionally, it was thought that once this type of vision loss happened, it couldn't be fixed. However, new research suggests this isn't always true. This study is looking at a new approach called biofeedback training. It uses gentle light and sound signals to stimulate the brain in a very specific way. The idea is to help the brain relearn how to best use the parts of the visual system that are still working correctly after the injury. This training focuses on encouraging the brain to make the most of its remaining visual abilities.
By helping people regain some visual function, especially for reading, this training could significantly improve their daily lives and independence. The study compares a group receiving this training to a group that doesn't, to understand how effective it is. We will carefully check people's eyesight and ask them about their quality of life before and after the training to see if it makes a positive difference.
Key takeaways
- Study tests a new brain training for vision loss (hemianopia) after brain injury.
- Uses lights and sounds to help the brain use remaining vision better.
- Aims to improve vision and daily life, especially reading ability.
- Involves 5 short training sessions and vision checks.
- Possible benefit: improved vision; minimal expected risks.
- Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 90 years old and have been diagnosed with hemianopia, which is vision loss in half of your visual field. This vision loss must be due to a brain injury, and it needs to have happened at least six months ago. You also need to be able to follow simple instructions about lights and sounds during the training sessions.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you are currently receiving or have recently had other treatments for low vision (poor eyesight), or if you have other serious medical conditions not related to your hemianopia. Also, if you have other eye diseases, like cataracts in both eyes that make it hard to do eye tests, or if you wouldn't be able to properly do the tests and training, you wouldn't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 90 years old?
- Do you have vision loss in half your visual field (hemianopia) due to a brain injury?
- Did your brain injury happen more than 6 months ago?
- Can you follow simple instructions about lights and sounds?
- Have you *not* had recent vision rehabilitation or other serious unrelated medical conditions?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will be assigned to either the biofeedback training group or a control group. The biofeedback training involves five sessions, each lasting about 20 minutes. These sessions use lights and sounds to stimulate your brain. Before and after the training period, you will have your vision checked using special eye tests. You will also be asked to fill out questionnaires about your quality of life. The total duration of your participation, including all tests and training sessions, will be discussed with you, but the training itself is spread over five brief sessions.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Toronto Western HospitalVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is hemianopia?
Hemianopia means losing sight in one half of your vision, often caused by a brain injury like a stroke.
What is biofeedback training?
It's a special type of brain training that uses lights and sounds to help your brain learn to use your existing vision more effectively.
How long does each training session last?
Each training session is short, lasting about 20 minutes.
Will I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications.
What happens if the training doesn't work for me?
As with any study, there's no guarantee of a particular outcome. Regardless of the results, your usual medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
Monica Daibert-Nido, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.