Comparing two versions of Semantic Feature Analysis treatment for aphasia
Optimizing and Understanding Semantic Feature Analysis Treatment for Aphasia: A Randomized Controlled Comparative Effectiveness Trial
This study is testing which of two different types of Semantic Feature Analysis treatment helps people with aphasia, especially those struggling to find words after a stroke, improve their language skills better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT04215952 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial investigates the effectiveness of two different versions of Semantic Feature Analysis (SFA) treatment for individuals with aphasia, specifically focusing on word-finding difficulties following a left-hemisphere stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatment conditions and will undergo 60 hours of SFA treatment over five weeks, with assessments before and after treatment to evaluate their naming abilities and other language skills. Additionally, cognitive and neural mechanisms associated with treatment success will be explored using eye-tracking and functional MRI techniques. The study aims to identify which version of SFA yields better outcomes for patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who are at least six months post-onset of aphasia due to a unilateral left-hemisphere stroke and have sufficient naming impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with right hemisphere strokes, significant psychiatric disorders, or severe motor speech disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance treatment options for individuals with aphasia, leading to improved communication abilities.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using Semantic Feature Analysis for aphasia treatment, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 6 months post-onset of aphasia due to unilateral left-hemisphere (LH) stroke * Independent in activities of daily living (ADLs) necessary to live in community-based housing or available caregiver to assist with ADLs * Medically stable and able to tolerate intensive treatment schedule (e.g. no uncontrolled seizures, difficulty breathing, frequent migraines) * English as a first language * No participation in any other speech-language treatment during this study, including follow-up period * Sufficient auditory comprehension abilities demonstrated during screening * Sufficient naming impairment exhibited during screening Exclusion Criteria: * Right Hemisphere stroke * Neurological disease other than stroke * Significant psychiatric disorder * Severe motor speech disorder * Active substance dependence
Where this trial is running
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: William D Hula, Ph.D. — VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Mary Sullivan, B.S.
- Email: mary.sullivan@va.gov
- Phone: 412-360-6472
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.