Science andTherapy

We take many things for granted in our daily life: we get up, drink

coffee, go shopping, wish each other a good day, etc. But just

how valuable is our independence? We appreciate the value, and

certainly become more aware of it, only when we, or a member

of our family, have to face the consequences of a reduction in our

mental capacity or in our motor and language skills.

A customized and intense rehabilitation programme is essential for

the best recovery. At cereneo, we do everything possible to motivate

our patients towards an intense programme in order to achieve that

recovery. Our goal is to give back an autonomous, high quality life.

Motivation

Prof. Dr. med. Andreas R. Luft

Medical director

«Working together with you to achieve your goals is great motivation for our interdisciplinary team.»

Using modern analysis and measurement tools (3D motion

analysis, brain stimulation, advanced brain imaging) we start

with an extensive diagnosis of the impairment. Technical

devices, including a gait analysis system with 3D motion

measurement, and strength and muscle activity

measurements, help in refining the diagnosis. In a personal

consultation with the patient we then determine the

individual goals based on the patient’s aspiration and

motivation. During treatment, the measurement tools are

also used to indicate the progress and build the database

for refinement of the therapy programme. The patient is

informed every day on their training performance and

improvement – a key motivating factor.

We meet at regular interdisciplinary conferences with

neurologists, neuroradiologists, physiotherapists,

occupational therapists, speech therapists and

neuropsychologists to assess the rehabilitative care in order

to further customize and adjust the therapy programme.

At the end of a patient’s stay at cereneo, progress is

analysed, the goals achieved are evaluated together with

the patient. To ensure continued treatment and to stabilize

recovery successive treatment steps are discussed.

Our professional skills

in the rehabilitation process

· Neurology and medicine

· Neuroradiology

· Rehabilitative nursing

· Neuropsychology

· Speech therapy

· Occupational therapy

· Physiotherapy

· Dietary counselling

· Social counselling

Medical and therapeutic concept

Targeted therapy with a multidisciplinary team

«However small the details may seem, recognising the progress made is vitally important for your motivation and conti-nued recovery.»

Our therapies at cereneo take place in what we refer to as ‘laboratories’. We are convinced that

research and treatment have to go hand-in-hand. Our patients can, if they wish, participate in

studies investigating new forms of therapy. But they will also benefit without active participation

as our research ensures that we can base our treatment decisions on the latest knowledge and

experience available in the field worldwide.

Modern neuroscience meths

are used in our diagnosis

and treatment

· Advanced functional and

anatomical magnetic resonance

imaging (MRI)

· Non-invasive brain stimulation

(using magnetic fields or

electrical currents)

· High-resolution

electroencephalography

· Biofeedback, neurofeedback

· Telemetric electromyography

(during movement)

· Three-dimensional motion

analysis

Medical and therapeutic concept

Our research is the basis for a state of the art treatment

Brain and cognition laboratory

Neurological deficits usually impair

attention span, thought, emotion and

memory. Neuropsychology includes the

precise diagnosis and analysis of these

deficits within the treatment (e.g.,

concentration and driving aptitude tests).

Neuropsychological training can improve

cognition, memory, attention, abstract

reasoning, spatial imagination, perception

and praxia, i.e., the ability to execute

complex, goal-directed movements.

Language, voice and swallowing laboratory

Language, speech and swallowing disorders

are among the most common consequences

of brain damage. Limitations in

communication skills and in independent

feeding abilities immensely reduce the

quality of life. The treatment of speech and

swallowing disorders is adapted to

individual needs, which are analysed

through clinical tests and imaging

procedures (MRI, fibre-optic endoscopic

evaluation of swallowing). Based on the

findings, the certified speech therapist

defines the intensive individual training

programme and continuously monitors the

patient’s progress.

Gait laboratory

Mobility means autonomy. If your mobility is restricted, an

independent life in and around your home is often not

possible, and naturally your physical fitness also suffers

from restricted mobility. Targeted treatment of gait

begins with an analysis of the leg, torso and arm

movements, foot-ground interaction force, and muscle

activity. Physical fitness is assessed using a spiro-

ergometry test (walking on a treadmill while measuring

your oxygen consumption). On the basis of

comprehensive assessments an individualized treatment

programme is developed.

Arm laboratory

Arm and hand movements are extremely complex. If these

abilities are restricted, coping with everyday tasks becomes

very difficult. Once again, an exact analysis of the

impairment is the starting point for treatment. Neurological

examinations, three-dimensional motion analysis and

measurement of brain activity by MRI form the basis of each

treatment plan. The training is focused on targeted

movements; e.g., reaching and grasping, complex everyday

tasks and precision movements with hand and arm robots.

Social counseling

Social counselling helps with a return to everyday life and

work. We provide support and information on issues such as

social security, insurance, finding an optimal home and

contacting the appropriate offices and institutions.

Psychological care

We support and advise patients and their families in

psychological matters and coping strategies which help to

find the way back into a happy life after a brain injury.

«Positive feedback on progress is the best motivation for an intense work-out, irrespective of whether it comes

from the therapist or the robot.»

«We are convinced that first-class therapy and pioneering research must go hand-in-hand.»

Inspired by the results of brain and neurosciences the

relatively young field of neurorehabilitation gained

momentum in in building valuable scientific evidence. We

very actively participate in this research by initiating and

conducting basic science and clinical studies focusing on

the brain mechanisms of recovery and learning. In addition

we focus on developing novel treatments and diagnostic

methodologies. A close scientific cooperation with leading

research groups around the world ensures that our

research is well embedded in the overall progress in the

field. This constitutes the foundation of our expertise in

neurorehabilitation from which our patients benefit.

Scientific thought and reasoning also helps the treatment

process. We base our treatment decisions on a precise

evaluation of the patient’s needs, deficits and goals. We

critically evaluate each treatment step by measuring its

result and we adjust the therapy accordingly. For such

critical evaluation through the collection of scientifically

sound data, cereneo has at its disposal state of the art

equipment and methodologies such as magnetic

resonance imaging, transcranial magnetic and electrical

stimulation with neuronavigation, 3D motion and force

analysis, telemetric electromyography and

encephalography.

Research and science

Research for optimal neurological rehabilitation

Basic research aims at

understanding how recovery

works and evolves over

time.

Clinical research puts to

the test new approaches to

diagnosis and therapy.

«With our attentive, reliable service and comfortable atmosphere, we make a significant contribution to the recovery of our guests.»

The open areas of the hospital create a feeling of light and

transparency. The functional but restful infrastructure

guarantees maximum comfort. Our first-rate rooms offer

patients a relaxing haven in which they can recover from

training activities and regain their strength. The culinary

choices are plentiful: fresh ingredients and customised

menus provide enjoyment at every meal.

cereneo is located on the premises of the magnificent Park

Hotel Vitznau, on Lake Lucerne. With great attention to

detail, the hotel has been extensively renovated and

adapted to suit all levels of comfort. The Park Hotel Vitznau

is a real jewel that perfectly combines modernity and

nostalgic ambience. A place to enjoy peace and tranquillity

and to recharge the batteries

Stunning views in a soothing

atmosphere: cereneo, under

the umbrella of the Park

Hotel Vitznau.

Hospitality

Excellent all-round care

«Experience the beauty of nature, pause and enjoy the moment, and step towards positive change.»

Solitary farms, rolling alpine meadows, snow-capped

mountain peaks. The view from cereneo is simply superb.

No wonder Vitznau, with its location between Lake Lucerne

and the Rigi – the ‘Queen of the mountains’, has attracted

people from all over the world for 150 years.

From Vitznau, one can take a ride on the oldest cog

railway, opened in 1871. From the summit of the Rigi

(1,798 m), a breathtaking panoramic view of the Alps and

across central Switzerland stretches as far as Germany and

France. With a hiking trail network of more than 100

kilometers and a rich alpine flora of over 1,000 species, the

Rigi is a recreational and natural paradise. Lake Lucerne is

surrounded by high mountains and rolling hills, and the

historic paddle steamers invite you to go on an

unforgettable journey into the past.

Our therapy incorporates Vitznau’s unique location. We not

only assess gait training on the premises of cereneo, but

where possible also in Vitznau, on the Rigi or in nearby

Lucerne. Here, everyday activities in the scenic environment

can be trained – a big step towards an independent life.

Vitznau

Where the mountains meet the lake

The idea was to create a centre for neurological

rehabilitation that did not feel like a hospital, despite

operating to the highest medical and therapeutic standards.

For both architects and engineers, this required a great

deal of pioneering thinking and proved to be an exciting

challenge. As a result, cereneo has the spatial and

functional requirements of a modern hospital combined

with innovative design.

Originally, the space at the Park Hotel Vitznau was

fragmented and static. A comprehensive reorganisation

was necessary and the result is a piece of open architecture

with rooms that merge fluidly into each other. This is

complemented by the space around the building: the

spectacular views of the lake and mountains and the

natural outdoor light work superbly within the interior of

the building.

Architektur

A hospital with a difference«Modernity is blended with tradition to create

something exceptionally unique.»

People

Our leading doctors

Prof. Dr. med. Andreas R. Luft

Is a neurologist and clinical scientist, professor at the

University of Zurich and medical director of cereneo.

Prof. Luft heads the stroke center and vascular

neurology service at the University Hospital in Zurich.

He has international reputation in neurorehabilitation

science. As the inventor of the medical and scientific

concept of cereneo he is convinced that patients

with brain injury or stroke need continuous care with

empathy, devotion backed by modern science to

achieve the maximum recovery possible.

• Medical School: University of

Tübingen, Germany (1991-1998)

• Training in Neurology at the

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore

USA, and the University of Tübingen,

Germany (1998-2005)

• Assistant Professor for Clinical

Neurorehabilitation at the

University of Zurich (2008-2013)

• Full Professor for Vascular

Neurology and Rehabilitation at the

University of Zurich (since 2014)

Dr. med. Alexandra Brokazky

Is a radiologist and neuroradiologist with

comprehensive clinical and research experience.

Coming from a varied and well founded educational

background she brings extensive experience to this

position and holds the title of head physician in a

renowned hospital in the Kanton of Zurich.

Dr. Brokatzky supervises MRI and ultrasound imaging

at cereneo which is central to diagnostics and the

assessment of the progress of our patients.

• Specialization in diagnostic

radiology, Germany (2001-2006)

• Specialization in diagnostic

neuroradiology, University Hospital

Zürich, Switzerland (2006-2008)

• Dissertation Greifswald, Germany

(2008)

• Senior Physician at the Kantonsspital

Frauenfeld Switzerland (2008-2011)

• Head Physician Hospital Uster,

Switzerland (since 2012)

Dr. Kai Lutz

Since he graduated as a Psychologist, Dr. Kai Lutz

has investigated the human brain using neuro-

scientific methods. Consequently, he has published a

considerable number of articles in internationally

renowned scientific journals on the brain’s motor

system and other topics. In his role as Scientific

Director and Neuropsychologist at the cereneo,

he attaches importance to continually optimize

diagnostic as well as therapeutic approaches.

Marta Gonzalez

Is a physiotherapist with many years of experience in the field of neurologi-

cal rehabilitation. She is a specialist in the treatment according to the

“Forced Use” concept. Through her diverse education and practical experi-

ence she brings valuable know-how and leadership to the interdisciplinary

team of therapists. In close cooperation with our team of doctors and nurses

she is responsible for the implementation of our innovative therapy concept.

This concept is built on scientific evidence and focuses on motivation and

intensive and progressive training.

Nursing team

Our nursing team works towards activating the patients and focuses on

supporting the patients in the attainment of their specific goals. Various

concepts are used such as basal stimulation, Bobath, kinaesthesia or a

system of individualized nursing and coaching. Through continuous interdis-

ciplinary training our nursing team commits itself to a standard of professio-

nal and personal excellence.

• Graduate Program in Psychology

at Unversity Düsseldorf, Germany

(1991-1997) and at the Health

Sciences Center, Oklahoma City,

USA (1994-1995)

• PhD Program at the Medical

Institute, Research Center Jülich,

Germany (1997-1998) and at the

Institute for General Psychology,

University Magdeburg, Germany

(1998-2002)

• Postdoc and Senior Researcher

at the Chair for Neuropsychology,

University Zürich, Switzerland

(2002-2013)

• Studies of physiotherapy at the

University of La Laguna, Spain

(1992-1995)

• Continuing education in various

therapeutic concepts: Bobath,

FOTT, nerve mobilisation, manual

therapy

• Advanced training for Forced Use

Specialist, Zurzach, Switzerland

(2010-2012)

• Advanced training for Forced Use

Instructor (since 2012)

We’d like to introduce our range of

services to you personally. For more

information about our diagnostic and

treatment services or accommodation

options please contact our

administration.

Give us a call.

We are happy to help you.

Inquiries and advice

We’re herefor you «A warm welcome.»

We can organise your transport, wherever

you are in the world. Recumbent or

sedentary transport can be arranged with or

without medical supervision.

If you are travelling independently, take the

A4 from Zurich to Gotthard. Exit at

Küssnacht and follow the signs to Gersau/

Weggis. Vitznau is the next village after

passing through Weggis. You enter the

hospital through the entrance on the left

looking towards the lake. Parking is available

opposite the hotel.

Buses from Küssnacht run every half hour to

Vitznau and there is a regular boat service

from Lucerne.

Contact

How tofind us

Cereneo AG | Seestrasse 18 | 6354 Vitznau | Switzerland phone + 41 41 399 67 77 | fax + 41 41 399 67 71 | info@cereneo.ch | www.cereneo.ch