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Sturt J, Rogers R, Armour C, Cameron D, De Rijk L, Fiorentino F, Forbes T, Glen C, Grealish A, Kreft J, Meye de Souza I, Spikol E, Tzouvara V, Greenberg N: Reconsolidation of traumatic memories protocol compared to trauma‑focussed cognitive behaviour therapy for post‑traumatic stress disorder in UK military veterans: a randomised controlled feasibility trial.
Pilot and Feasibility Studies (2023) 9:175, 2023.
Abstract:
Background
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs more commonly in military veterans than the general population. Whilst current therapies are effective, up to half of veterans commencing treatment do not complete it. Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) protocol is a novel, easy to train, talking therapy with promising findings. We examine the feasibility of undertaking an efficacy trial of RTM in veterans.
Methods
A parallel group, single-centre randomised controlled feasibility trial with a post-completion qualitative interview study. Sixty military veterans were randomised 2:1 to RTM (n = 35) or Trauma Focussed Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) (n = 25). We aimed to determine the rate of recruitment and retention, understand reasons for attrition, determine data quality and size of efficacy signal. We explored veteransf perceptions of experiences of joining the trial, the research procedures and therapy, and design improvements for future veteran studies. Military veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD or complex PTSD, and clinically significant symptoms, were recruited between January 2020 and June 2021. Primary outcome was feasibility using pre-determined progression criteria alongside PTSD symptoms, with depression, recovery, and rehabilitation as secondary outcomes. Data were collected at baseline, 6, 12, and 20 weeks. Interviews (n = 15) were conducted after 20 weeks. Both therapies were delivered by trained charity sector provider therapists.
Results
Participants' mean age was 53 years, the mean baseline PTSD symptoms score assessed by the Post-traumati Stress Checklist (PCL-5) was 57 (range 0.80). Fifty had complex PTSD and 39 had experienced . 4 traumas. Data were analysed at 20 weeks for feasibility outcomes (n = 60) and mental health outcomes (n = 45). Seven of eight progression criteria were met. The RTM group experienced a mean 18-point reduction on the PCL-5. TFCBT group participants experienced a mean reduction of eight points. Forty-eight percent of the RTM group no longer met.
