Eye tracking speech-generating devices in disorders involving language, speech and motor skills

Rey-Ares L, García Martí S, Pichon-Riviere A, Augustovski F, Alcaraz A, Bardach A, Ciapponi A, López A
Record ID 32016001126
Spanish
Authors' objectives: The purpose of this report is to assess the available evidence on the efficacy, safety and use coverage policy related aspects on eye tracking speech-generating devices in individuals with speech and language disorders, and reduced motor skills.
Authors' recommendations: The evidence found on the benefits of eye tracking SGDs when compared with low-technology AAC is scarce and of low quality. In general, the studies were conducted in small groups of patients and did not compare with other alternatives; they focused on measuring the level of satisfaction, the capacity to use the device and/or quality of life. Although scientific studies are few, there is consensus that the proper use of AAC (low and high-tech) to reestablish or improve communication skills is necessary in those patients with impaired language and speech, and has beneficial effects. In general, the use of eye tracking SGDs is considered in the clinical practice guidelines in patients with ALS. Coverage policies from high-income countries consider their use in patients with severe language disorders, who have limitations that prevent the use of other types of AAC and in those patients with proven capacity to operate the device. There was no evidence showing the built-in eye tracking devices are better than speech-generating devices fitted to an eye tracker or that a particular brand or model is better than other alternatives. Even though scientific evidence does not provide comparative information about the different devices, they may have very different technical characteristics and benefits; therefore, decisions should be made taking into account each patient's need and setting. Scientific societies and health sponsors have not expressed preferences for any specific device.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2016
URL for published report: www.iecs.org.ar/home-ets/
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: Argentina
MeSH Terms
  • Humans
  • Language
  • Motor Skills
  • Speech
  • Speech Disorders
Contact
Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy
Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA
Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar
Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar
Copyright: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)
This is a bibliographic record of a published health technology assessment from a member of INAHTA or other HTA producer. No evaluation of the quality of this assessment has been made for the HTA database.