ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 5 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
332
THE IMPACT OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION ON
POSTOPERATIVE COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENTS
Sharopov Sadullo Shukurillo ogli
Assistant lecturer at the Alfraganus University.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15367740
Abstract. Following surgical operations for brain tumors, patients often experience
cognitive impairments such as decreased memory, attention, reasoning, and problem-solving
abilities. These issues are more prevalent in tumors located in the frontal, temporal, and parietal
regions (Taphoorn & Klein, 2004). During rehabilitation, neuropsychological interventions play
a key role in restoring cognitive functions. In this study, the initial and final cognitive status of
20 patients was assessed using the MMSE and MoCA tests. An 8-week individualized cognitive
training program was implemented, which included Attention Process Training (APT), memory
exercises, and problem-solving tasks (Cicerone et al., 2011).
As a result, 60% of the patients showed improvements in memory and attention scores,
with an average increase of 18% in the overall cognitive index. These outcomes are attributed to
the correct selection of training strategies and active patient participation. Computer-based
neuropsychological platforms (e.g., CogniFit, BrainHQ) enhanced training effectiveness
(Gehring et al., 2009). Additionally, group sessions and family psychoeducational meetings were
conducted to boost motivation and maintain emotional stability. This approach improved
patients’ engagement with the intervention and had a positive impact on outcomes.
Keywords: brain tumors, cognitive impairments, neuropsychological rehabilitation,
MMSE, MoCA, memory, attention, CogniFit.
ВЛИЯНИЕ НЕЙРОПСИХОЛОГИЧЕСКОЙ РЕАБИЛИТАЦИИ НА
ПОСЛЕОПЕРАЦИОННЫЕ КОГНИТИВНЫЕ НАРУШЕНИЯ
Аннотация. После хирургических операций по поводу опухолей головного мозга у
пациентов часто возникают когнитивные нарушения, такие как снижение памяти,
внимания, рассуждений и способностей к решению проблем. Эти проблемы чаще
встречаются при опухолях, расположенных в лобной, височной и теменной областях
(Taphoorn & Klein, 2004). Во время реабилитации нейропсихологические вмешательства
играют ключевую роль в восстановлении когнитивных функций. В этом исследовании
начальный и конечный когнитивный статус 20 пациентов оценивался с помощью тестов
MMSE и MoCA. Была реализована 8-недельная индивидуальная программа когнитивной
тренировки, которая включала тренировку процесса внимания (APT), упражнения на
память и задачи по решению проблем (Cicerone et al., 2011).
В результате у 60% пациентов наблюдалось улучшение показателей памяти и
внимания, при этом средний рост общего когнитивного индекса составил 18%. Эти
результаты объясняются правильным выбором стратегий обучения и активным
участием пациента. Компьютерные нейропсихологические платформы (например,
CogniFit, BrainHQ) повысили эффективность обучения (Gehring et al., 2009). Кроме того,
проводились групповые сессии и семейные психообразовательные встречи для повышения
мотивации и поддержания эмоциональной стабильности.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 5 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
333
Такой подход улучшил вовлеченность пациентов в вмешательство и оказал
положительное влияние на результаты.
Ключевые слова: опухоли мозга, когнитивные нарушения, нейропсихологическая
реабилитация, MMSE, MoCA, память, внимание, CogniFit.
Introduction
Although neurosurgical operations for brain tumors can be life-saving, the cognitive
impairments that arise in the postoperative period can significantly limit a patient’s
independence in daily life and their ability to engage socially. Declines in functions such as
memory, attention, reasoning, and problem-solving are especially common in tumors located in
the frontal, temporal, and parietal regions (Taphoorn & Klein, 2004). When these cognitive
functions are impaired, patients often experience reduced mental efficiency and struggle to adapt
to their environment.
Neuropsychological rehabilitation plays a critical role in cognitive recovery and is
implemented through specialized exercises, computer-based stimulation, and psychoeducational
methods. Scientific studies show that neuroplasticity mechanisms are particularly active during
the first few months after surgery; therefore, early cognitive intervention significantly enhances
recovery outcomes (Cicerone et al., 2011).
Research Objective
The aim of this study is to identify cognitive impairments that arise in patients following
neurosurgical operations for brain tumors and to evaluate the effectiveness of
neuropsychological rehabilitation in addressing these impairments.
Research Methods
The study involved 20 patients (aged 30–65 years) who had undergone surgery for brain
tumors. All patients exhibited some degree of cognitive impairment postoperatively. Their
cognitive status was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Evaluations were conducted during the second week
after surgery and again at the eighth week, upon completion of rehabilitation.
An 8-week individualized cognitive rehabilitation program was developed as the
intervention. Sessions were held four times per week, each lasting 60 minutes. The program
included the following components:
•
Attention Process Training (APT) – to develop attention control and distribution;
•
Memory exercises – to strengthen short- and long-term memory;
•
Problem-solving tasks – to enhance logical reasoning and analytical thinking.
In addition, computer-based cognitive training platforms such as CogniFit and BrainHQ
were utilized. To improve patient motivation and ensure emotional stability, group sessions and
family psychoeducational meetings were also conducted as part of the intervention process.
Results
The results of the study indicate that eight weeks of individualized neuropsychological
interventions led to a stable recovery of cognitive functions in patients following brain tumor
surgery.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 5 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
334
Scores on the MMSE test increased from an initial average of 24.3 ± 2.1 to 27.1 ± 1.6 by
the end of the intervention (
p
< 0.01), indicating a statistically significant improvement in overall
cognitive status. Similarly, results from the MoCA test showed a comparable change, with the
average score rising from 21.8 ± 2.7 to 25.9 ± 2.3 (
p
< 0.001).
Throughout the training sessions, positive changes were observed in core cognitive
domains as a result of focused interventions such as APT (Attention Process Training), short-
and long-term memory exercises, and logical reasoning tasks. According to results from specific
tests targeting memory and attention, 60% of patients showed notable improvement in these
functions. Improvements included a 23% increase in episodic memory, 19% in working memory,
and 16% in problem-solving based on recognition tasks. The overall cognitive index rose by
18%, which was statistically significant (
t
(19) = 3.42,
p
= 0.002).
Patients who actively used computer-based platforms such as
CogniFit
and
BrainHQ
achieved even higher outcomes. In this group, MoCA scores increased by an average of 4.1
points, compared to 2.3 points in less active participants (
p
= 0.015). These platforms enabled
patients to train independently, ensuring consistency in rehabilitation. This technological
approach contributed to the accelerated restoration of cognitive functions.
Additionally, patients who actively participated in sessions demonstrated improved
emotional states, a more positive attitude toward the intervention, and higher motivation during
training. This effect may be attributed to the group sessions and family psychoeducational
meetings. It was observed that the patient’s engagement and motivation were decisive factors in
the cognitive recovery process.
The table below presents a comparative summary of key indicators before and after
neuropsychological rehabilitation. Scores are expressed as mean values and standard deviations
(±SD).
P
-values reflect statistical significance.
Comparative Analysis of Key Indicators in Patients Before and After
Neuropsychological Rehabilitation.
Indicator Name
Post-Surgery
(Week 1)
Post-Rehabilitation
(Week 8)
Statistical
Significance (p)
MMSE — Overall Cognitive
Status
24.3 ± 2.1
27.1 ± 1.6
< 0.01
MoCA — Cognitive Function
Score
21.8 ± 2.7
25.9 ± 2.3
< 0.001
Memory Functions
63.5 ± 5.8
77.9 ± 6.2
< 0.01
Attention Index (APT
Results)
58.4 ± 6.3
72.1 ± 5.7
< 0.01
MoCA Improvement in
Patients Using CogniFit
–
+4.1
< 0.015
As shown in the table, all major cognitive indicators demonstrated significant
improvement following rehabilitation.
Discussion and Recommendations
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 5 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
335
The findings of this study indicate that early and individualized neuropsychological
rehabilitation is crucial for effectively addressing cognitive impairments that arise after
neurosurgical interventions for brain tumors. The improvements observed in memory, attention,
and reasoning functions were primarily achieved through a comprehensive approach, including
APT training, computer-based platforms (
CogniFit
,
BrainHQ
), and psychoeducational sessions.
The increases observed in MoCA and MMSE test scores reflect a recovery of overall
cognitive status in patients. Notably, results were more favorable in patients who used computer-
based platforms. These technologies offer patients greater independence, encourage regular
participation in exercises, and provide an effective feedback system.
Furthermore, patients’ attitudes toward the intervention, their level of motivation, and
family support were identified as critical factors in the cognitive recovery process. Patients who
actively participated in training sessions showed not only cognitive improvement but also
positive changes in their emotional state.
Recommendations:
1.
Cognitive assessment and the initiation of neuropsychological intervention should be
conducted within the first two weeks after surgery. Early intervention enhances recovery
outcomes.
2.
Individualized programs must be tailored to the specific type of cognitive deficit. For
example, APT is effective for attention-related issues, while specialized mnemonic exercises are
useful for memory impairments.
3.
Use of computer-based platforms is recommended. They allow comprehensive
monitoring and personalization of training activities.
4.
Family psychoeducational sessions should be included as part of the rehabilitation
process, as they help foster a positive attitude toward the intervention.
5.
Special attention should be given to the patient’s emotional state. Psychological stability
directly influences the success of cognitive rehabilitation.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that early and individualized neuropsychological rehabilitation
significantly contributes to the recovery of cognitive functions in patients after brain tumor
surgery. The intervention, which included Attention Process Training (APT), targeted memory
exercises, problem-solving tasks, and the use of computer-based platforms such as
CogniFit
and
BrainHQ
, led to marked improvements in memory, attention, and reasoning abilities.
Statistically significant increases in MMSE and MoCA scores, along with enhanced
performance in specific cognitive domains, confirm the effectiveness of a structured and
multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach. Patients who engaged more actively in training,
particularly with the support of technology and psychoeducational programs, experienced not
only better cognitive outcomes but also emotional stability and increased motivation—factors
that played a crucial role in their overall recovery.
The findings emphasize the necessity of initiating neuropsychological interventions
within the first two weeks post-surgery and tailoring therapy to the patient’s specific cognitive
deficits. Furthermore, integrating family support and addressing emotional well-being should be
viewed as integral components of cognitive rehabilitation.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN
SCIENCE
АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 5 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
336
REFERENCES
1.
Taphoorn, M. J. B., & Klein, M. (2004). Cognitive deficits in adult patients with brain
tumours.
The Lancet Neurology
, 3(3), 159–168.
2.
Cicerone, K. D., et al. (2011). Evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation: Updated review.
Archives of Physical Medicine
, 92(4), 519–530.
3.
Gehring, K., Aaronson, N. K., Taphoorn, M. J., & Sitskoorn, M. M. (2009). Interventions
for cognitive deficits.
The Lancet Neurology
, 7(6), 548–560.
