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Safe Laser Access System: Locked-in Syndrome. Susan Fager, David R. Beukelman, Tom Jakobs Institute for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital University of Nebraska (UNL & UNMC) InvoTek, Inc. Locked-In Syndrome.
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Safe Laser Access System: Locked-in Syndrome Susan Fager, David R. Beukelman, Tom Jakobs Institute for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital University of Nebraska (UNL & UNMC) InvoTek, Inc
Locked-In Syndrome • Etiology usually basilar artery occlusion resulting in brainstem infarction (Budak, F., Ilhan, A., Ozmenoglu, M., & Komsuoglu, S.S., 1994) • State of conscious quadriplegia with voluntary movement limited to vertical eye movement and possible eye blinking (Plum, F, & Posner, J., 1966)
Background • Rationale 1: Laser technology provides precise access at a range of distances. • Rationale 2: Conventional laser technology is not eye-safe in disability use. • Rationale 3: An eye-safe laser access system has the potential for multiple assistive technology uses.
Initial Prototype Laser pointer Laser sensing surface Low tech pointing
Latest Prototype Digitized Speech Unit Computer Access Unit Environmental Control Unit
Participants: Locked - in Syndrome Participants: 7 Gender: 1 Female, 6 Males Age 18 to 62 years Etiology: Brainstem Stroke Time since onset: 4 weeks to 18 years
Summary of Results Two have transitioned to HeadMouse One remains with “low-tech” Laser Three ongoing training despite ongoing health issues One discontinued due to health issues and depression