Clinical Research Directory

Virtual Reality-Assisted Exercise in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

This randomized controlled, single-blind clinical trial investigates whether virtual reality (VR)-assisted, video game-based exercise training, added to a conventional pulmonary physiotherapy and rehabilitation program, improves functional level, respiratory parameters, and physical fitness in pediatric patients (5-18 years) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Participants attended 24 supervised, face-to-face exercise sessions over 8 weeks (3×/week) under physiotherapist supervision. The Experimental Group received game-based exercise using the Nintendo Wii Fit U platform with the Wii Balance Board and the Breathing Labs Breathing Games software (Slovenia) in addition to the conventional program. Outcomes included the Modified Alpha-Fit Pediatric Test Battery (vertical jump, 6-minute walk test, sit-and-reach, flamingo balance), upper-extremity isometric muscle strength (handheld dynamometry) and handgrip strength (Jamar), pulmonary function tests, maximal inspiratory and expiratory mouth pressures, accessory respiratory muscle architecture by myotonometry (MyotonPro: sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, pectoralis major), and ultrasound assessment of pleural thickness, diaphragm thickness, and diaphragm excursion.

The Importance of Physiotherapy After Separation Surgery in Pygopagus Conjoined Twins

Motor function delays are observed in pygopagus conjoined twins due to limited movement experience and deficits in proprioceptive sense. This study aimed to evaluate the neuromotor development of conjoined twins who acquired independent bodies, lives, and movements as a result of separation surgery, and to examine the effect of postoperative physiotherapy intervention on gross motor function.