Neurological and Physiological Effects of Animal-assisted Therapy for Patients in a Minimally Conscious State

Neurological and Physiological Effects of Animal-assisted Therapy for Patients in a Minimally Conscious State: a Randomized, Controlled Cross-over Study

This study aims to explore the impact of Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) on brain signal complexity in patients with minimally conscious state (MCS) by analyzing electroencephalogram (EEG) entropy. MCS patients typically exhibit reduced brain entropy compared to healthy individuals, indicating lower brain complexity. The study will assess whether AAT can enhance this complexity, which is crucial for understanding consciousness levels. Entropy, a measure of randomness in brain activity, will be used to evaluate AAT's effectiveness. In addition, electrocardiography (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA) and behavioral measurements will also be collected.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Inpatients in one of the study sites
• Acquired brain injury resulting from either traumatic or non-traumatic events
• Diagnosis of MCS defined by CRS-R according to the Aspen criteria (Giacino, 2005)
• Informed consent as documented by signature by the patient's legal representative
• Physiologically stable
• Aged 18 or over

Exclusion Criteria:

• Phobia or allergies to any of the involved animals
• Medical contraindications: acute or chronic disease (e.g. chronic pain, hypertension, heart disease, renal disease, liver disease, diabetes)
• Radical changes in medication (decision made with responsible physician)