[Use of a brain-computer interface by a patient with a craniocerebral injury]. / Utilisation d'une interface cerveau-ordinateur par un client présentant un traumatisme craniocérébral.

BACKGROUND: There is limited knowledge concerning the effectiveness of computer access modes. This article presents a case report of a client with a serious traumatic brain injury who, four years after his accident, tried a brain-computer interface (Cyberlink software). PURPOSE: To examine the client's computer performance (keyboard and mouse tasks) and the degree of realisation of three occupations (written communication, interpersonal relations and leisure). METHODS: A training over 16 weeks (2 x per week) and a follow-up at 3 months were completed. The activation of the computer with Cyberlink was tested with lateral movements of the eyes, relaxation waves, waves of activation of the brain and facial musculature. FINDINGS: After 8 weeks of training with Cyberlink, no improvements were noted in the use of the keyboard and the mouse. The trial of another interface (tactile screen) finally made the optimization of mouse functions possible. IMPLICATIONS: The endurance and memory problems were circumvented with a long, repetitive and flexible training of the computer use.

[The benefits of rehabilitation in people with low potential for recuperation]. / Les bénéfices d'une période d'essai en réadaptation pour les personnes à faible potentiel de récupération.

BACKGROUND: This article presents the story of a young man who sustained severe limitations following a traumatic brain injury. Considering his very slow recovery rate and a virtual absence of contact with the environment, hopes for rehabilitation were deemed very low. He was nevertheless admitted to a rehabilitation institute for a trial period in November of 2000. RESULTS: This trial revealed potential for rehabilitation and daily treatments were undertaken. This young man left the rehabilitation centre two years later capable of new social participation, including attending an adapted school and even taking small trips. The mobilisation of the rehabilitation team, the financial support of the insurance company, the contribution of assistive devices, the support of those around him, collaborations with his community and above all his own motivation were all factors that played a major role in his rehabilitation. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: This rehabilitation experience brought the team to reflect on factors that determine rehabilitation potential, the notion of significant progress, as well as concepts of quality of life and social participation.