INCOG recommendations for management of cognition following traumatic brain injury, part V: memory.

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic brain injury results in complex cognitive sequelae. Impairments in memory are among the most common sequelae resulting in significant functional problems. An international team of researchers and clinicians (known as INCOG) was formed to develop recommendations for the management of impairments in memory.

METHODS

The experts met to select appropriate recommendations and then reviewed available literature to ensure recommendations were current. Decision algorithms incorporating the recommendations based on inclusion and exclusion criteria of published trials were developed. The team then prioritized recommendations for implementation and developed audit criteria to evaluate adherence to the best practice recommendations.

RESULTS

The recommendations for rehabilitation of memory impairments support the integration of internal and external compensatory strategies implemented using appropriate instructional techniques that consider functional relevance and important patient characteristics. Restorative strategies have regained significant popularity, given broader access to computer technology; however, evidence for efficacy of these techniques remains weak and the choice in using these should be guided by special considerations.

CONCLUSION

There is good evidence for the integration of internal and external compensatory memory strategies that are implemented using instructional procedures for rehabilitation for memory impairments. The evidence for the efficacy of restorative strategies currently remains weak.