An evaluation of the feasibility and clinical utility of the Diego™ computer-assisted robotics device for use with people with a cervical spinal cord injury in the acute setting: a mixed method pilot study.

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the feasibility and clinical utility of the Diego™ for people with a cervical spinal cord injury (CSI) in an acute spinal ward. A mixed methods study included prospective measurement of outcomes and qualitative interviews with participants and health professionals. A 22 day (4.4 weeks Monday to Friday) program incorporating baseline and follow up measurements, 2 × 1-h standard upper limb sessions per week, and 3 × 1-h Diego™ sessions per week were designed for implementation. Participants were assessed on recruitment and at the completion of the program. Seven eligible patients (6 male and 1 female) and eight health professionals participated. Participants improved in most muscle strength and range of motion scores across upper limb joints although these were not statistically significant, Spinal Cord Independence Measure scores (14.29 at baseline to 18.29 at follow up, <i>p</i> = 0.01) and fatigue scores (reduction of 1.57 points, <i>p</i> = 0.577). Pain scores remained stable. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure indicated improvements in performance (+2.20 points, <i>p</i> = 0.028) and satisfaction scores (+2.53 points, <i>p</i> = 0.028). Qualitative findings from both participants and health professionals indicated that participants experienced psychological benefits using the Diego™. Some gains in functioning occurred. Further research should include a randomised controlled trial to fully evaluate the effectiveness of the Diego™ in acute settings.