Effects of Animal Assisted Therapy on Brain Activity in Adults with Minimally Conscious State A Randomized Cross-over Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of Animal Assisted Therapy AAT on brain signal complexity in patients with a minimally conscious state MCS. MCS patients typically show lower brain complexity compared to healthy individuals, measured by electroencephalogram EEG entropy. The study investigates whether AAT can increase this complexity, which is important for understanding consciousness levels. In addition, electrocardiography ECG, electrodermal activity EDA, and behavioral measures will be collected to provide a broader view of physiological changes. Participants will take part in two therapy sessions per week within their clinical routine, totaling four sessions. The study uses a randomized, controlled cross-over design with two arms one starting with AAT followed by treatment as usual TAU, and the other starting with TAU followed by AAT. Each patient experiences both interventions in alternating weeks, allowing comparison of effects between the therapies. During the approximately three-week study period, EEG signal complexity will be measured before, during, and after both AAT and TAU sessions. Other physiological measures like ECG and EDA will also be monitored alongside behavioral assessments. The study tracks changes in brain activity and physiological responses to evaluate the impact of AAT. Participants are closely observed throughout, ensuring safety and adherence to the protocol.

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