Efficacy of a virtual reality-based intervention in children with medulloblastoma: case series

Abstract

Medulloblastoma accounts for 20% of all paediatric brain tumours as the second most frequent type. It arises from the embryonic neuroectodermal cells of the cerebellum, and itis characterized by decreased speech, mutism, cerebellar dysfunctions, and apathy.1 Children with medulloblastoma can experience a broad range of functional problems dueto the effects of the primary tumour and complications of treatment. There is a dearth of evidence on balance rehabilitation in children with medulloblastoma. Ospina et al.found no trials comparing the effects of physical therapy interventions focused on symptom relief and compensation of adverse effects of treatment in children and adolescentswith cancer. Thus, there are no standardised rehabilitation exercise programmes for children with brain tumours.2 At present, approaches to rehabilitation are frequentlyattempted in children with brain tumours. The assessment of physical activity and performance in functional skills and activities daily living of children is useful in clinicalpractice. The correct implementation of rehabilitation therapy requires accurate and reliable evaluation. This paper focuses on the effect of the Nintendo Wii Fit Plus® (NWFP),which we have and use in our clinic as an intervention to improve balance in children with medulloblastoma.