@article{ref1,
title="Strengthening the quality of longitudinal research into cognitive-communication recovery after traumatic brain injury: A systematic review",
journal="International journal of speech-language pathology",
year="2016",
author="Elbourn, E. and Togher, L. and Kenny, B. and Power, E.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="1-16",
abstract="PURPOSE: (i) To systematically review longitudinal and prognostic studies relating to the trajectory of cognitive-communication recovery after TBI and (ii) to provide recommendations to strengthen future research. <br><br>METHOD: Thirteen health literature databases were accessed up until July 2014. MAIN MEASURES: Articles were screened systematically against pre-determined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality reviews were performed on the selected articles using a modified Downs & Black Rating Scale. Two independent reviewers performed the reviews. <br><br>RESULT: Sixteen longitudinal and prognostic articles met the inclusion criteria. There was evidence of either maintenance or improvement of cognitive-communication skills during the first 3 years post-injury. However, the studies did not provide detailed recovery trajectories, by failing to evaluate numerous data points over time. No studies evaluated recovery beyond 3 years post-injury. Injury severity, lesion location, brain volume loss and conversation skills may predict specific cognitive-communication outcomes. There was high variability in study characteristics and measures. <br><br>CONCLUSION: There is currently scarce evidence regarding cognitive-communication recovery and prognosis. People with TBI may recover or maintain pre-morbid cognitive-communication skills during the early rehabilitation stage. Further research detailing the recovery trajectory with a view to evaluating predictive factors is strongly indicated. Guidelines for future research are provided.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1754-9507",
doi="10.1080/17549507.2016.1193896",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17549507.2016.1193896"
}