The Effects of Augmented Reality on Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis With Trial Sequential Analysis

Aims Stroke incidence has increased recently, causing functional impairments in most patients. Augmented reality(AR) is frequently employed as an interactive and repetitive technology to facilitate functional rehabilitation. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the current evidence in the effect of AR for stroke rehabilitation. Design Systematic review with meta-analysis. Data Sources Seven electronic databases including PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane were searched by MeSH terms and keywords such as 'Stroke' 'Augmented reality' up to December 1, 2024. Methods The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to evaluate potential bias. Meta-analysis and Trial Sequence Analysis were used to analyse by the datastata15.0 software and TSA v0.9 software. Results We searched 11 studies in a systematic review and 8 in a meta-analysis. The AR training group exhibited a significantly superior Berg Balance Scale scores(BBS) to those of the traditional training group. The Z-value curve of the sixth study crossed the traditional and TSA boundary values. Subgroup analysis revealed that BBS was significantly influenced in the hospital compared to the home intervention. The Timed Up and Go Test scores(TUG) and the 10-Meter Walk Test scores(10MWT) were similar in the AR and traditional training groups. Conclusion AR technology is beneficial for the lower limb balance functional rehabilitation of stroke patients. However, further exploration and verification are necessary due to an insufficient number of trials. Implications For The Profession And/or Patient CareThe findings provide clinical references for implementing AR in rehabilitation interventions for stroke patients. Impact This paper is helpful for nurses in the rehabilitation training process of stroke patients, to make personalised plans for their rehabilitation, implement rehabilitation, provide health education and address other aspects of efforts, to provide patients with comprehensive support and help, to promote the functional recovery of patients and improve the quality of life. Reporting Method PRISMA guidelines. Trial and Protocol Registration PROSPERO number: CRD42024533761. Patient or Public Contribution MJEditor (www. mjedi tor. com) provided English editing services during the preparation of this manuscript