Oscillatory Acoustic-electric Stimulation in Patients With Disorders of Consciousness

Acoustic-electric Therapy in Patients With Disorders of Consciousness

Altered gamma activity has been observed in several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including a reduction in gamma synchronization in patients with disorders of consciousness. Modulation of gamma oscillations with rhythmic stimulation has been used as a possible therapeutic tool. Hence, we try to use acoustic and electric stimulation at gamma frequency to restore brain oscillation and thereby to improve conscious awareness in patients with disorders of consciousness.

We propose a matched-pair parallel study in patients with disorders of consciousness to investigate whether combined acoustic and trigeminal nerve stimulation can modulate brain oscillations, as measured by electroencephalography (EEG), and whether the brain activity changes are coupled with improvements in consciousness.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical diagnosis of disorders of consciousness based on CRS-R
• Time post-injury ranging from one to twelve months
• No history of acquired brain injury or psychiatric or neurological diseases

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not medically stable
• Any contraindication to electric stimulation
• Hearing impairment before brain injury