Emergent research findings: music therapy with disorders of consciousness

Abstract

Background: There is a need for standardised, bio-medically informed music therapy (MT) approaches in the assessment and rehabilitation of those with prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDOC), or Vegetative and Minimally Conscious States (VS/MCS). This perspective informs a research programme exploring MT with PDOC outlined in this presentation.Methods: A summary of existing and preliminary findings are detailed, including a cross-over study comparing the rehabilitative and prognostic potential of MT to preferred text narration, using neurophysiological (EEG, heart-rate variability, respiration) and behavioural measures. Twelve PDOC patients’ data will be presented, focussing on case study and behavioural findings.Results: Case material highlights improvements in the clinical state of an MCS patient during MT treatment using the Coma Recovery Scale and EEG measures. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.001) in blink rate and arousal levels between MCS and VS patients at rest and in response to both treatments...