This is a bibliographic record of a published health technology assessment from a member of INAHTA. No evaluation of the quality of this assessment has been made for the HTA database.

Rey-Ares L, García Martí S, Pichon-Riviere A, Augustovski F, Alcaraz A, Bardach A, Ciapponi A, López A. Eye tracking speech-generating devices in disorders involving language, speech and motor skills. Buenos Aires: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS). Informe de Respuesta Rapida No. 474. 2016

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.

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.

www.iecs.org.ar

Subject indexing assigned by CRD

Humans; Language; Motor Skills; Speech; Speech Disorders

Spanish

Argentina

An English language summary is available.

Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy, Viamonte 2146 - 3 Piso, C1056ABH Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina Tel: +54 11 49 66 00 82 Fax:+54 11 49 53 40 58 Email: info@iecs.org.ar

32016001126

02/12/2016