Utilizing Augmented Reality to Quantify Information Processing and Motor Performance in Military Personnel to Detect Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (P8-1.002)

Abstract

<h3>Objective:</h3> Utilize augmented reality (AR) to create military specific scenarios that can be objectively quantified and used to facilitate the detection of and return-to-duty (RTD) following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). <h3>Background:</h3> Methods of detecting military mTBI are rooted in neuropsychological tests that measure a construct of executive or motor function. This approach does not lend itself to accurate detection or appropriate RTD. We have demonstrated the HoloLens 2 AR device provides accurate biomechanical data. Placing digital assets in a user’s real-world via AR technology creates an ecological environment to evaluate function. An AR Rifle qualification test (RQT) to evaluate dynamic movement, information processing, shooting performance and decision-making was developed. To evaluate performance in the context of a group or military unit, a room clearing assessment was created. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> Data were gathered from 157 active-duty service members. The RQT was performed under single- and dual-task conditions. Five room clearing scenarios in which information processing and motor demands were manipulated were completed. Kinematic data from the HoloLens 2 provided biomechanical outcomes characterizing cognitive and motor performance. <h3>Results:</h3> Reaction time (RT) to firing and accuracy of target acquisition in the RQT did not differ between single- and dual-task conditions (<i>p&lt;0.05)</i>. Transition time from kneel to stand did not differ between conditions; however, dual-task sway path (41.2±17.5 cm) post-transition was increased compared to single-task (35.1±14.2 cm). There was a significant increase in processing time as the complexity of the room clearing scenarios increased. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> The objective quantification of information processing (RT) and motor (postural sway and movement time) function while performing ecological AR military tasks can enhance the detection of mTBI using objective functional metrics. The use of AR to deliver realistic digital experiences will facilitate appropriate RTD to ensure the safety of the service member and their unit. <b>Disclosure:</b> Mr. Kaya has nothing to disclose. Anson Rosenfeldt has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Cleveland Clinic. Anson Rosenfeldt has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for Enspire DBS. The institution of Anson Rosenfeldt has received research support from Michael J. Fox Foundation. The institution of Anson Rosenfeldt has received research support from National Institute of Health. The institution of Anson Rosenfeldt has received research support from Department of Defense. Anson Rosenfeldt has received intellectual property interests from a discovery or technology relating to health care. Mr. Waltz has nothing to disclose. Mrs. Jansen has nothing to disclose. Ms. Owen has nothing to disclose. Mrs. Dunlap has nothing to disclose. Karissa Hastilow has nothing to disclose. Mrs. Scelina has nothing to disclose. Mr. Zimmerman has nothing to disclose. Morgan McGrath has nothing to disclose. Amanda Penko has nothing to disclose. The institution of Dr. Alberts has received research support from NIH. Dr. Alberts has received intellectual property interests from a discovery or technology relating to health care. Dr. Alberts has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Member, Health and Wellness Council with Peloton Interactive.