Mengdi Lu, Wim Saeys, Maria Maryam, Inva Gjeleshi, Hoda Nazarahari, Steven Truijen, Sofia Scataglini
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction: Extended reality (XR) is increasingly used in rehabilitation, showing potential to enhance clinical outcomes. Recently, integrating digital human modeling (DHM) with XR has gained attention. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining 3D and 4D DHM with XR in rehabilitation.
Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines on the 28th of May 2024 in five databases (PubMed, IEEE Database, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Science Direct). All types of experimental studies investigating the effectiveness of XR using 3D and 4D DHM in rehabilitation were included. Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) and Evidence-Based Guideline Development (EBRO) were used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies included.
Results: Of the 1048 articles found, 16 were included in this review. These studies focused on 3D DHM in XR-based rehabilitation across various conditions and demonstrated superior effectiveness, especially in individuals with neglect, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and type 2 diabetes in comparison with conventional therapy. DHM, captured via 3D cameras and combined with motion analysis or Wii remotes, was integrated into XR systems like VR games and avatar therapy. The studies reveal positive impacts on functional (e.g., upper limb function, gait, balance, quality of life), physical (e.g., pain reduction, spasticity, joint range), psychological (e.g., depression, emotional regulation, body image), and general health outcomes (e.g., body composition, metabolic health).
Conclusion: Despite variability in study parameters, limited evidence suggests that 3D DHM in XR-based rehabilitation may enhance physical and psychological recovery across various pathologies. This review highlights the potential of DHM and XR integration but underscores the need for further research with larger samples, longer follow-ups, and standardized measures to confirm these technologies' reliability and effectiveness in rehabilitation.
期刊介绍:
The translation of new discoveries in medicine to clinical routine has never been easy. During the second half of the last century, thanks to the progress in chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology, we have seen the development and the application of a large number of drugs and devices aimed at the treatment of symptoms, blocking unwanted pathways and, in the case of infectious diseases, fighting the micro-organisms responsible. However, we are facing, today, a dramatic change in the therapeutic approach to pathologies and diseases. Indeed, the challenge of the present and the next decade is to fully restore the physiological status of the diseased organism and to completely regenerate tissue and organs when they are so seriously affected that treatments cannot be limited to the repression of symptoms or to the repair of damage. This is being made possible thanks to the major developments made in basic cell and molecular biology, including stem cell science, growth factor delivery, gene isolation and transfection, the advances in bioengineering and nanotechnology, including development of new biomaterials, biofabrication technologies and use of bioreactors, and the big improvements in diagnostic tools and imaging of cells, tissues and organs.
In today`s world, an enhancement of communication between multidisciplinary experts, together with the promotion of joint projects and close collaborations among scientists, engineers, industry people, regulatory agencies and physicians are absolute requirements for the success of any attempt to develop and clinically apply a new biological therapy or an innovative device involving the collective use of biomaterials, cells and/or bioactive molecules. “Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology” aspires to be a forum for all people involved in the process by bridging the gap too often existing between a discovery in the basic sciences and its clinical application.