Sara Abbondio

Dr. Sara Abbondio

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
21 March 2026 in Brain Sciences
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
GCGuido Catalano
Guido Catalano
SASara Abbondio
Sara Abbondio
RNRoberta Nicotra
Roberta Nicotra
VBValentina Berselli
Valentina Berselli
MGMarta Guarischi
Marta Guarischi
SSSabrina Giovanna Signorini
Sabrina Giovanna Signorini
Background: Eye-tracking (ET) devices are gaining attention in technology-based paediatric rehabilitation through their intrinsic ability to assess patients’ engagement and visual attention within motivating, technology-based environments. We conducted a systematic review of available evidence from 2004 to 2025 on the implementation of ET in rehabilitative trainings targeting paediatric populations with neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. This paper aims to outline the rehabilitative outcomes pursued in the clinical populations considered. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) were consulted to summarise the state of the art of the last 20 years. Selected articles were categorised according to the type of treated disorder and the rehabilitated function. Results: ET devices have been increasingly integrated into paediatric rehabilitation with promising results across multiple neurodevelopmental conditions (e.g., ASD, ADHD, cerebral palsy). These systems have proven effective not only in training gaze control, but also in enhancing executive functions, social cognition, communication, and participation. Furthermore, they promote personalised and data-driven solutions and support high levels of engagement, feasibility, and user satisfaction. Conclusions: ET represents a promising frontier for paediatric rehabilitation, addressing various neurodevelopmental disorders. The gaze-contingent protocols employed have demonstrated potential effects in promoting adaptive behaviour across multiple developmental areas. Further research is warranted to provide shared guidance and to strengthen practice recommendations.

25 March 2026 in PLOS ONE
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
Roberta NossaRoberta Nossa
Roberta Nossa
FSFabio Alexander Storm
Fabio Alexander Storm
EDEleonora Diella
Eleonora Diella
RRRiccardo Riboni
Riccardo Riboni
LMLuca Emanuele Molteni
Luca Emanuele Molteni
AGAgilik@Home Study Group
Agilik@Home Study Group
Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common neuromotor disability in children and often results in spastic diplegia, which can lead to crouch gait. This gait pattern, resulting from weakness predominantly in the extensor muscles and spasticity mainly affecting the flexors, is characterized by excessive knee flexion, insufficient hip extension, and excessive ankle dorsiflexion, which together can progressively impair walking. The Agilik powered knee-ankle-foot orthosis is designed to enhance knee extension and potentially improve gait in children with CP. Here we present the protocol of a study that aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of Agilik in a domiciliary setting. Methods: According to this protocol, the multicentre randomized controlled trial will enrol 40 children with CP (aged 5–17 years) exhibiting crouch gait. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the Intervention Group, which will receive training with the Agilik device, or the Control Group, which will maintain their standard routines and therapies. All participants will undergo physical examination and baseline assessments. Then, while the Control Group continues the usual care, the Intervention Group will begin the Agilik program, including three device fitting visits, 4/5 weeks of hospital training, and two months of home-based sessions. Both groups will be evaluated at three time points: baseline, after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up. Primary endpoints include the 6-Minute Walking Test and Knee Extension in Mid-Stance computed during gait analysis. Secondary endpoints assess gross-motor abilities, gait speed, 3D gait analysis with electromyography, joint range of motion, muscle length, self-perceived performance, spasticity, and balance. Additionally, the Intervention Group will provide feedback on the usability and acceptability of the device, and on cognitive, behavioural and affective engagement. Discussion: This trial will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the Agilik device in children with CP and crouch gait. It will help emphasizing the potential benefits of the device on daily living activities and gait performance. The findings could influence clinical practice and guide future interventions for managing crouch gait in CP, potentially leading to enhanced quality of life for these children. Trial registration: The trial has been registered the 30 th September 2024 on ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT06622655.