A telerehabilitation program to improve visual perception in children and adolescents with hemianopia consecutive to a brain tumour: a single-arm feasibility and proof-of-concept trial

Abstract

Background. Brain tumour in children can induce hemianopia, a loss of conscious vision, profoundly impacting their development and future prospects, yet no effective intervention exists for this pediatric population. This study aims to explore the feasibility, safety, and potential effectiveness of a home-based audiovisual stimulation in immersive virtual-reality (3D-MOT-IVR) to restore visual perception. Method. In a phase 2a, open-labeled, nonrandomized, single arm study, 10 children and adolescents with stable hemianopia were enrolled to perform 20-minute sessions of 3D-MOT-IVR every other day for six weeks from home. We assessed feasibility by monitoring completion rates, remote data transfer, qualitative feedback. Safety was evaluated using validated cybersickness questionnaires. Comprehensive vision assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention, with follow-ups at 1- and 6-month intervals. Results. The home-based 3D-MOT-IVR intervention proved both feasible and safe, with no reported adverse events. All participants completed the prescribed stimulations and the pre- and post-intervention assessment points, 90% completed the follow-ups. Remarkably, the outcomes revealed significant improvements post-intervention: 50% of participants showed enhanced visual perception in their blind field, while 70% exhibited increased reading speed. Importantly, these positive effects were sustained at the 6-month follow-up. A robust correlation emerged between 3D-MOT-IVR performance and improved visual perception in the blind field, emphasizing the intervention's effectiveness. Conclusion. Our findings underscore the feasibility and safety of home-based 3D-MOT-IVR as a potential intervention for hemianopia in children. These promising results lay a strong foundation for a larger randomized controlled trial, offering hope for a meaningful breakthrough in visual rehabilitation for this vulnerable population.