Minimal Detectable Difference vs. Diagnostic State Change Using the Coma Recovery Scale-revised: Informing Recovery Monitoring for Patients with Disorders of Consciousness

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

4:30 PM - 4:45 PM

Location: Station 1

Presenting Author(s)

Jessica A. Bombino-Elliott, PT, DPT, NCS, CBIS

Physical Therapist, PhD Student, Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow
University of Colorado Hospital, University of Colorado, Colorado State University

Patricia L. Grady-Dominguez, PhD, OTR/L (she/her/hers)

Postdoctoral Fellow
Colorado State University
Alison M. Cogan, PhD, OTR/L (she/her/hers)

Assistant Professor
University of Southern Californian
Mohammed H. Al Subeai

Phd Student
Colorado State University
Allan J. Kozlowski, PhD, B.Sc. (PT)

Research Scientist
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
Katherine O'Brien, PhD

Clinical Neuropsychologist
TIRR Memorial Hermann
Yelena Bodien

Assistant Professor
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Joseph T. Giacino, PhD

Professor, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School
Spaulding Rehabilitation/Harvard Medical School
Jennifer Ann Craft Weaver, PhD, OTR/L (she/her/hers)

Assistant Professor
Colorado State University

Describe the difference between state-based classification and Rasch-based Minimal Detectable Difference (MDD) in the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R)..
Discuss how MDD may detect changes in neurobehavioral function that occur when a person remains within a state of consciousness.
Evaluate how integrating MDD into clinical monitoring may support more precise assessment, individualized treatment planning, and improved care for patients with disorders of consciousness.