A Case Report: improving function utilizing an electronic-ink monitor in a traumatic brain injury patient.

Presenter Information

Sam Glaisher, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UPMC 

Abstract

The case reports a 30-year-old with post-concussion-syndrome (PCS) following a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). He initially presented with persistent chronic screen sensitivity but had improved tolerance of screen-based tasks with the use of an E-ink monitor. The patient suffered from a mTBI after a motor vehicle accident 2 years prior. He reported persistent headaches exacerbated with electronic screen use despite extensive vision, vestibular, and physical therapy improving his initial deficits. His symptoms were not improved despite gradual desensitization therapy. The patient had onset of headaches within minutes of looking at a computer monitor despite extensive attempts at gradual desensitization. With the transition to remote learning and classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, his deficits and symptoms made virtual learning difficult as it was impossible to avoid computer-based learning. The patient transitioned to an e-ink monitor, and he experienced a 22-fold increase in his tolerance for completing computer-based tasks (Mann-Whitney U demonstrated a p value < 0.001). With use of an e-ink monitor, the patient was able to complete his education, earning a professional degree. If utilization of an e-ink screen or related technology can improve the duration a patient can interact with information, this could cut down both financial and quality of life costs following TBI or other forms of neurotrauma. Although it may not improve the underlying deficit, utilization of e-ink, or other adaptive technologies like trans-reflective monitors, may allow patients to return sooner to activities of daily living that require computer screens with less symptom exacerbation. This could help reduce the ramifications of patients' injuries and improve quality of life and wellbeing.

School

Nasuti College of Osteopathic Medicine

Submission Type

Paper

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Sam Glashier-permission form.pdf (43 kB)
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