Year

2014

Season

Spring

Paper Type

Master's Thesis

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree Name

Master of Arts in General Psychology (MAGP)

Department

Psychology

NACO controlled Corporate Body

University of North Florida. Department of Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Dominick Guss

Second Advisor

Dr. Lori Lange

Department Chair

Dr. Michael Toglia

College Dean

Dr. Barbara Hetrick

Abstract

Moyamoya disease is a rare entity characterized by progressive narrowing of intracranial blood vessels. In most cases, Moyamoya does not respond well to medical therapy and often leads to surgical revascularization. The physiological benefits of the revascularization surgery for Moyamoya patients have been well documented, yet the effects of surgery on cognitive skills and abilities are far less studied. Participants in the current study were 33 patients, 24 to 85 years of age, who underwent revascularization surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. All patients underwent a physical and cognitive preoperative evaluation, where speech, memory, and intellectual processes were measured. After surgery, patients returned for three follow-up assessments over a period of six months. All patients experienced stabilization or improvement of physiological symptoms. Regarding cognitive functions, speech, memory, and intellectual processes improved significantly after surgery. Results showed not only a reduction of physiological symptoms, but also a significant cognitive improvement postsurgery. This study adds to the research of this disease and to the benefits of treatment. More research can only strengthen these findings and educate healthcare professionals; helping them reaffirm Moyamoya patients have a better quality of life, by reinforcing the benefits of revascularization surgery.

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