Mild traumatic brain injury
Background
- Concussion (mild TBI) is defined as GCS 14-15 w/ assoc signs or symptoms after a blunt force or acceleration-deceleration injury
- Types
- Simple concussion
- Gradual resolution of symptoms w/in 7-10d
- Complex concussion
- Persisting symptoms or cognitive impairment
- Symptoms with exertion
- Simple concussion
Diagnosis
- Any alteration in the mental state at the time of event or subsequent to the event
- Symptoms may be delayed by days-weeks
- Most consistent abnormality is subtle impairments in cognitive function
- Attention, concentration, memory, processing speed, reaction time
- Physical signs/symptoms
- HA, dizziness, insomnia, fatigue, uneven gait, N/V, blurred vision, seizures
- Behavioral changes
- Irritability, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, problems related to school/work
Treatment
- Simple
- Limitations on playing and training while symptomatic
- F/u with PMD
- Complex
- Refer to sports medicine or concussion specialist
Prognosis
- At 3 mo after injury <30% are symptomatic
- At 1 yr after injury 15% are symptomatic
Disposition
- Upon discharge from the ER all patients with a diagnosis of concussion should receive educational materials on activities to avoid and symptoms to anticipate during recovery. There are better long term outcomes in patients who receive such materials[1]
See Also
Source
Tintinalli
- ↑ Ronsford J, et al. Impact of early intervention on outcome after mild traumatic head in adults. 2002