1
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Ingram EO, Karr JE. The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool: A multidimensional symptom model for detecting elevated post-concussion symptoms. Clin Neuropsychol 2024:1-24. [PMID: 38369485 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2024.2315735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Investigate whether a four-factor model of post-concussion symptoms (i.e. cognitive, physical, affective, and sleep-arousal) aids in identifying student-athletes with persistent concerns not reflected by a total symptom score. Method: Collegiate student-athletes (N = 32,066) from the Concussion Assessment Research and Education consortium completed the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool, 3rd edition Symptom Evaluation at baseline and two post-injury follow-ups (i.e. beginning RTP and 6-month). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to compare a one- and four-factor model of post-concussion symptoms. Normative reference data were compared across stratifications (e.g. sex, prior concussions, and number of pre-existing conditions) using Mann-Whitney U tests, and elevation rates (i.e. ≥ 84th percentile) for subscales and the total score were recorded. Results: The four-factor model fit well before and after injury (CFIs > .95). Greater symptom severity on the subscale and total scores was associated with female sex (ps<.001, r range: .07 to .14) and more pre-existing conditions (ps<.001, η 2 range: .01 to .04), while having more prior concussions was only related to total symptom scores (ps<.001, η 2<.01). After a concussion, a sizeable portion of student-athletes (i.e., RTP = 11.8%; 6-month = 8.3%) had subscale elevations despite no total score elevation. Physical subscale elevations at RTP were the most common (i.e., 11.9%), driven by head and neck pain. Conclusion: After a sport-related concussion, a four-factor symptom model can be used to assess persistent symptoms in collegiate student-athletes. Identifying athletes with domain-specific elevations may help clinicians identify areas for further assessment and, in some cases, personalized rehabilitation plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric O Ingram
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Justin E Karr
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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2
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Rauchman SH, Albert J, Pinkhasov A, Reiss AB. Mild-to-Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review with Focus on the Visual System. Neurol Int 2022; 14:453-470. [PMID: 35736619 PMCID: PMC9227114 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint14020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a major global public health problem. Neurological damage from TBI may be mild, moderate, or severe and occurs both immediately at the time of impact (primary injury) and continues to evolve afterwards (secondary injury). In mild (m)TBI, common symptoms are headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Visual impairment is especially prevalent. Insomnia, attentional deficits and memory problems often occur. Neuroimaging methods for the management of TBI include computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The location and the extent of injuries determine the motor and/or sensory deficits that result. Parietal lobe damage can lead to deficits in sensorimotor function, memory, and attention span. The processing of visual information may be disrupted, with consequences such as poor hand-eye coordination and balance. TBI may cause lesions in the occipital or parietal lobe that leave the TBI patient with incomplete homonymous hemianopia. Overall, TBI can interfere with everyday life by compromising the ability to work, sleep, drive, read, communicate and perform numerous activities previously taken for granted. Treatment and rehabilitation options available to TBI sufferers are inadequate and there is a pressing need for new ways to help these patients to optimize their functioning and maintain productivity and participation in life activities, family and community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven H. Rauchman
- The Fresno Institute of Neuroscience, Fresno, CA 93730, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Jacqueline Albert
- Department of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA; (J.A.); (A.B.R.)
| | - Aaron Pinkhasov
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA;
| | - Allison B. Reiss
- Department of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA; (J.A.); (A.B.R.)
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3
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La Fountaine MF, Hill-Lombardi V, Hohn AN, Leahy CL, Testa AJ. Preliminary Evidence for a Window of Increased Vulnerability to Sustain a Concussion in Females: A Brief Report. Front Neurol 2019; 10:691. [PMID: 31338057 PMCID: PMC6629886 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
A difference exists between sexes for the incidence of concussion injuries and severity of post-injury outcomes with females having a higher incidence rate (in comparable sports) and experience more robust symptoms than males. The basis for this disparity has remained largely unresolved. Recent findings point to a potential biological mechanism that may be related to the menstrual cycle as an arbiter of post-injury outcomes. What has not been addressed, is whether the phase of menstrual cycle (inferred fluctuations of ovarian hormones) contributes to an increased vulnerability to sustain a concussion injury. This prospective, observational study sought to determine if concussions occurred at different frequencies throughout the phase of the menstrual cycle. Female athletes who sustained a concussion injury were queried three times over the 7-day study (e.g., within 48 h of injury, and 4 and 7 days after injury) to recall the number of days that have elapsed since the beginning of their most recent menstruation. Twenty female athletes enrolled after sustaining a concussion; 18 were eumenorrheic and 2 amenorrheic. Among eumenorrheic participants at the time of injury, 2 were in the follicular phase, 4 were in the early luteal phase and 9 were in the late luteal phase. Two athletes were injured on the first and 1 was injured on the second day of menstruation. The greatest number of concussions were sustained during the late luteal phase and during the first 2 days of menstruation. This 9-day window accounted for 2/3rd of the sustained concussions in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F La Fountaine
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,The Institute for Advanced Study of Rehabilitation and Sports Science, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Vicci Hill-Lombardi
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,The Institute for Advanced Study of Rehabilitation and Sports Science, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States.,Department of Athletic Training, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Asante N Hohn
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Caroline L Leahy
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Anthony J Testa
- Center for Sports Medicine, Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ, United States
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Ellis MJ, Leddy J, Cordingley D, Willer B. A Physiological Approach to Assessment and Rehabilitation of Acute Concussion in Collegiate and Professional Athletes. Front Neurol 2018; 9:1115. [PMID: 30619068 PMCID: PMC6306465 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.01115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sport-related concussion is an important condition that can affect collegiate and professional athletes. Expert consensus guidelines currently suggest that all athletes who sustain acute concussion be managed with a conservative approach consisting of relative rest and gradual resumption of school and sport activities with active intervention reserved for those with persistent post-concussion symptoms lasting >10-14 days for adults. Unfortunately, these recommendations place little emphasis on the rapid physical deconditioning that occurs in athletes within days of exercise cessation or the pathophysiological processes responsible for acute concussion symptoms that can be successfully targeted by evidence-based rehabilitation strategies. Based on our evolving approach to patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms, we now present an updated physiological approach to the initial medical assessment, rehabilitation, and multi-disciplinary management of collegiate and professional athletes with acute concussion. Utilizing the results of a careful clinical history, comprehensive physical examination and graded aerobic exercise testing, we outline how team physicians, and athletic training staff can partner with multi-disciplinary experts in traumatic brain injury to develop individually tailored rehabilitation programs that target the main physiological causes of acute concussion symptoms (autonomic nervous system dysfunction/exercise intolerance, vestibulo-ocular dysfunction, and cervical spine dysfunction) while maintaining the athlete's physical fitness during the recovery period. Considerations for multi-disciplinary medical clearance of collegiate and professional athletes as well as the application of this approach to non-elite athletes are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Ellis
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Pediatrics and Child Health, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Canada North Concussion Network, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Pan Am Concussion Program, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - John Leddy
- UBMD Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Dean Cordingley
- Pan Am Concussion Program, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Pan Am Clinic Foundation, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Barry Willer
- Department of Psychiatry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
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5
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Childs C, Barker LA, Gage AM, Loosemore M. Investigating possible retinal biomarkers of head trauma in Olympic boxers using optical coherence tomography. Eye Brain 2018; 10:101-110. [PMID: 30588143 PMCID: PMC6299469 DOI: 10.2147/eb.s183042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Changes to retina have been reported after a number of neurodegenerative conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate retinal structures in Olympic boxers exposed to frequent head blows. Methods Retinal imaging offers potential as a non-invasive biomarker of neuropathology. Macula and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was measured using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in UK Olympic boxers attending two mandatory eye screening programs, 18 months apart. Data from the two eye screenings provide longitudinal data of retinal change over time. Sedentary healthy subjects (controls) without past or present history of concussion were also screened at the time of the second boxer screening to provide comparison of cross-sectional data. Results Sixteen Olympic boxers aged 20–33 years and 20 sedentary healthy controls, aged 24–45 years, were recruited. Significant macula thickening was observed over time (18 months) in 75% of right and 50% of left eye sectors. For RNFL, left eye quadrants thickened. For right eye RNFL quadrants, thickening and thinning of this layer were observed. Cross-sectional results showed thinner macula sectors and RNFL quadrants in Olympic boxers compared to controls. Conclusion Significant change to macula and RNFL densities, occurring over an 18 month interval is an unexpected finding in otherwise heathy elite sportsmen. In addition, macula and RNFL were thinner than healthy sedentary controls. OCT may prove clinically useful as a candidate retinal biomarker of neuropathological change after mild traumatic brain injury and/or repeat head blows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charmaine Childs
- Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK,
| | - Lynne A Barker
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied Psychology, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| | - Alex Md Gage
- Alex Gage Family Optometrist, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| | - Mike Loosemore
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH), London, UK
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Lesiakowski P, Lubiński W, Zwierko T. Evoked potentials in diagnosis of visual dysfunction in amateur boxers. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2018; 46:449-459. [PMID: 29973091 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2018.1496763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Injuries with varying degrees of temporary or permanent visual dysfunction are common in boxing. This study presents clinical diagnostic information regarding the functional integrity of the visual system in elite amateur boxers. The objective of this study was to assess the presence of normal or abnormal pattern visual evoked potentials (VEP). VEP in boxers were analyzed in relation to the nonathletic group and years of boxing activity. METHODS Clinical examination involved 31 boxers (21 male and 10 female) and 31 controls homogeneous in terms of age and gender. Pattern-reversal VEP elicited by checkerboard stimuli with large (LC) and small checks (SC) under monocular condition were applied. The latency and amplitude of N75, P100 and N135 components of the VEP waveform were analyzed. Absolute values and interocular differences of P100 latency and N75-P100 amplitude were used in determining VEP abnormalities. RESULTS Individual analysis showed prolonged P100 latency in both eyes in one male boxer. Interocular P100 latency differences beyond 8 ms were observed in three male boxers. The N75-P100 amplitude of four boxers exceeded the normal range in both eyes for the LC stimulation and one boxer for the SC stimulation. Interocular N75-P100 amplitude differences beyond the normal range in two cases for both the LC and the SC stimulation were confirmed. There was a positive correlation between years of boxing activity and N75 latency in SC (R = 0.480, p < 0.05) and N75-P100 amplitude in LC (R = -0.370, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Long-term boxing training may cause impairments in neural conductivity in the visual pathway. VEP seem to be a valuable tool in the neurophysiological diagnosis of visual function in contact sports. They can be recommended as a systematical examination for boxers during training processes for the indication and reduction in the incidence of vision-threatening injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Lesiakowski
- a Department of Physical Education and Sport , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Wojciech Lubiński
- b Department of Ophthalmology , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Teresa Zwierko
- c Department of Physical Culture and Health Promotion, Laboratory of Kinesiology in Functional and Structural Human Research Center , University of Szczecin , Szczecin , Poland
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7
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La Fountaine MF. An anatomical and physiological basis for the cardiovascular autonomic nervous system consequences of sport-related brain injury. Int J Psychophysiol 2018; 132:155-166. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2017.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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8
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Evanson NK, Guilhaume-Correa F, Herman JP, Goodman MD. Optic tract injury after closed head traumatic brain injury in mice: A model of indirect traumatic optic neuropathy. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0197346. [PMID: 29746557 PMCID: PMC5944994 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult male C57BL/6J mice have previously been reported to have motor and memory deficits after experimental closed head traumatic brain injury (TBI), without associated gross pathologic damage or neuroimaging changes detectable by magnetic resonance imaging or diffusion tensor imaging protocols. The presence of neurologic deficits, however, suggests neural damage or dysfunction in these animals. Accordingly, we undertook a histologic analysis of mice after TBI. Gross pathology and histologic analysis using Nissl stain and NeuN immunohistochemistry demonstrated no obvious tissue damage or neuron loss. However, Luxol Fast Blue stain revealed myelin injury in the optic tract, while Fluoro Jade B and silver degeneration staining revealed evidence of axonal neurodegeneration in the optic tract as well as the lateral geniculate nucleus of the thalamus and superior colliculus (detectable at 7 days, but not 24 hours, after injury). Fluoro Jade B staining was not detectable in other white matter tracts, brain regions or in cell somata. In addition, there was increased GFAP staining in these optic tract, lateral geniculate, and superior colliculus 7 days post-injury, and morphologic changes in optic tract microglia that were detectable 24 hours after injury but were more prominent 7 days post-injury. Interestingly, there were no findings of degeneration or gliosis in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which is also heavily innervated by the optic tract. Using micro-computed tomography imaging, we also found that the optic canal appears to decrease in diameter with a dorsal-ventral load on the skull, which suggests that the optic canal may be the site of injury. These results suggest that there is axonal degeneration in the optic tract and a subset of directly innervated areas, with associated neuroinflammation and astrocytosis, which develop within 7 days of injury, and also suggest that this weight drop injury may be a model for studying indirect traumatic optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan K. Evanson
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Fernanda Guilhaume-Correa
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - James P. Herman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Michael D. Goodman
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
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9
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Ellis MJ, Cordingley DM, Vis S, Reimer KM, Leiter J, Russell K. Clinical predictors of vestibulo-ocular dysfunction in pediatric sports-related concussion. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2017; 19:38-45. [PMID: 27689244 DOI: 10.3171/2016.7.peds16310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There were 2 objectives of this study. The first objective was to identify clinical variables associated with vestibulo-ocular dysfunction (VOD) detected at initial consultation among pediatric patients with acute sports-related concussion (SRC) and postconcussion syndrome (PCS). The second objective was to reexamine the prevalence of VOD in this clinical cohort and evaluate the effect of VOD on length of recovery and the development of PCS. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted for all patients with acute SRC and PCS who were evaluated at a pediatric multidisciplinary concussion program from September 2013 to May 2015. Acute SRS was defined as presenting < 30 days postinjury, and PCS was defined according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision criteria and included being symptomatic 30 days or longer postinjury. The initial assessment included clinical history and physical examination performed by 1 neurosurgeon. Patients were assessed for VOD, defined as the presence of more than 1 subjective vestibular and oculomotor complaint (dizziness, diplopia, blurred vision, etc.) and more than 1 objective physical examination finding (abnormal near point of convergence, smooth pursuits, saccades, or vestibulo-ocular reflex testing). Poisson regression analysis was used to identify factors that increased the risk of VOD at initial presentation and the development of PCS. RESULTS Three hundred ninety-nine children, including 306 patients with acute SRC and 93 with PCS, were included. Of these patients, 30.1% of those with acute SRC (65.0% male, mean age 13.9 years) and 43.0% of those with PCS (41.9% male, mean age 15.4 years) met the criteria for VOD at initial consultation. Independent predictors of VOD at initial consultation included female sex, preinjury history of depression, posttraumatic amnesia, and presence of dizziness, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing at the time of injury. Independent predictors of PCS among patients with acute SRC included the presence of VOD at initial consultation, preinjury history of depression, and posttraumatic amnesia at the time of injury. CONCLUSIONS This study identified important potential risk factors for the development of VOD following pediatric SRC. These results provide confirmatory evidence that VOD at initial consultation is associated with prolonged recovery and is an independent predictor for the development of PCS. Future studies examining clinical prediction rules in pediatric concussion should include VOD. Additional research is needed to elucidate the natural history of VOD following SRC and establish evidence-based indications for targeted vestibular rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Ellis
- Departments of 1 Surgery and.,Pediatrics and Child Health, and.,Section of Neurosurgery, University of Manitoba.,Pan Am Concussion Program, and.,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Canada North Concussion Network, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Jeff Leiter
- Departments of 1 Surgery and.,Pan Am Concussion Program, and
| | - Kelly Russell
- Pediatrics and Child Health, and.,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Canada North Concussion Network, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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10
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Cordingley D, Girardin R, Reimer K, Ritchie L, Leiter J, Russell K, Ellis MJ. Graded aerobic treadmill testing in pediatric sports-related concussion: safety, clinical use, and patient outcomes. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2016; 25:693-702. [PMID: 27620871 DOI: 10.3171/2016.5.peds16139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were 2-fold: 1) to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and clinical use of graded aerobic treadmill testing in pediatric patients with sports-related concussion (SRC), and 2) to evaluate the clinical outcomes of treatment with a submaximal aerobic exercise program in patients with physiological post-concussion disorder (PCD). METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients (age < 20 years) with SRC who were referred to a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program and underwent graded aerobic treadmill testing between October 9, 2014, and February 11, 2016. Clinical assessments were carried out by a single neurosurgeon and included clinical history taking, physical examination, and recording specific patient-reported concussion-related symptoms using the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS). Graded aerobic treadmill testing using a modified Balke protocol for incremental increases in intensity was used as a diagnostic tool to assess physiological recovery, classify post-concussion syndrome (PCS) subtype, and reassess patients following treatment. Patients with a symptom-limited threshold on treadmill testing (physiological PCD) were treated with an individually tailored submaximal exercise prescription and multidisciplinary targeted therapies. RESULTS One hundred six patients (mean age 15.1 years, range 11-19 years) with SRC underwent a total of 141 treadmill tests. There were no serious complications related to treadmill testing in this study. Overall, 138 (97.9%) of 141 tests were well tolerated and contributed valuable clinical information. Treadmill testing confirmed physiological recovery in 63 (96.9%) of 65 patients tested, allowing successful return to play in 61 (93.8%). Treadmill testing was used to diagnose physiological PCD in 58 patients and cervicogenic PCD in 1 patient. Of the 41 patients with physiological PCD who had complete follow-up and were treated with tailored submaximal exercise prescription, 37 (90.2%) were classified as clinically improved and 33 (80.5%) successfully returned to sporting activities. Patients who did not respond or experienced an incomplete response to submaximal aerobic exercise treatment included 7 patients with migraine headaches and 1 patient with a postinjury psychiatric disorder. CONCLUSIONS Graded aerobic treadmill testing is a safe, tolerable, and clinically valuable tool that can assist in the evaluation and management of pediatric SRC. Future research is needed to confirm the clinical value of this tool in return-to-play decision making. Studies are also needed to understand the pathophysiology of physiological PCD and the effects of targeted treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karen Reimer
- Pan Am Concussion Program.,Canada North Concussion Network;,Section of Physical Therapy, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Manitoba; and
| | - Lesley Ritchie
- Pan Am Concussion Program.,Canada North Concussion Network;,Departments of 3 Clinical Health Psychology
| | - Jeff Leiter
- Pan Am Concussion Program.,Canada North Concussion Network;,Surgery
| | - Kelly Russell
- Canada North Concussion Network;,Pediatrics and Child Health.,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Michael J Ellis
- Pan Am Concussion Program.,Canada North Concussion Network;,Surgery.,Pediatrics and Child Health.,Section of Neurosurgery, and.,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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11
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Abstract
AbstractObjectives: To summarize the clinical characteristics and outcomes of pediatric sports-related concussion (SRC) patients who were evaluated and managed at a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program and examine the healthcare resources and personnel required to meet the needs of this patient population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of all pediatric SRC patients referred to the Pan Am Concussion Program from September 1st, 2013 to May 25th, 2015. Initial assessments and diagnoses were carried out by a single neurosurgeon. Return-to-Play decision-making was carried out by the multidisciplinary team. Results: 604 patients, including 423 pediatric SRC patients were evaluated at the Pan Am Concussion Program during the study period. The mean age of study patients was 14.30 years (SD: 2.32, range 7-19 years); 252 (59.57%) were males. Hockey (182; 43.03%) and soccer (60; 14.18%) were the most commonly played sports at the time of injury. Overall, 294 (69.50%) of SRC patients met the clinical criteria for concussion recovery, while 75 (17.73%) were lost to follow-up, and 53 (12.53%) remained in active treatment at the end of the study period. The median duration of symptoms among the 261 acute SRC patients with complete follow-up was 23 days (IQR: 15, 36). Overall, 25.30% of pediatric SRC patients underwent at least one diagnostic imaging test and 32.62% received referral to another member of our multidisciplinary clinical team. Conclusion: Comprehensive care of pediatric SRC patients requires access to appropriate diagnostic resources and the multidisciplinary collaboration of experts with national and provincially-recognized training in TBI.
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12
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Ellis MJ, Leddy J, Willer B. Multi-Disciplinary Management of Athletes with Post-Concussion Syndrome: An Evolving Pathophysiological Approach. Front Neurol 2016; 7:136. [PMID: 27605923 PMCID: PMC4995355 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2016.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Historically, patients with sports-related concussion (SRC) have been managed in a uniform fashion consisting mostly of prescribed physical and cognitive rest with the expectation that all symptoms will spontaneously resolve with time. Although this approach will result in successful return to school and sports activities in the majority of athletes, an important proportion will develop persistent concussion symptoms characteristic of post-concussion syndrome (PCS). Recent advances in exercise science, neuroimaging, and clinical research suggest that the clinical manifestations of PCS are mediated by unique pathophysiological processes that can be identified by features of the clinical history and physical examination as well as the use of graded aerobic treadmill testing. Athletes who develop PCS represent a unique population whose care must be individualized and must incorporate a rehabilitative strategy that promotes enhanced recovery of concussion-related symptoms while preventing physical deconditioning. In this review, we present our evolving evidence-based approach to evaluation and management of athletes with PCS that aims to identify the pathophysiological mechanisms mediating persistent concussion symptoms and guides the initiation of individually tailored rehabilitation programs that target these processes. In addition, we outline the important qualified roles that multi-disciplinary healthcare professionals can play in the management of this patient population, and discuss where future research efforts must be focused to further evaluate this evolving pathophysiological approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Ellis
- Pan Am Concussion Program, Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Canada North Concussion Network , Winnipeg, MB , Canada
| | - John Leddy
- UBMD Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences , Buffalo, NY , USA
| | - Barry Willer
- Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences , Buffalo, NY , USA
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13
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Ellis MJ, McDonald PJ, Cordingley D, Mansouri B, Essig M, Ritchie L. Retirement-from-sport considerations following pediatric sports-related concussion: case illustrations and institutional approach. Neurosurg Focus 2016; 40:E8. [DOI: 10.3171/2016.1.focus15600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The decision to advise an athlete to retire from sports following sports-related concussion (SRC) remains a persistent challenge for physicians. In the absence of strong empirical evidence to support recommendations, clinical decision making must be individualized and should involve a multidisciplinary team of experts in concussion and traumatic brain injury. Although previous authors have advocated for a more conservative approach to these issues in child and adolescent athletes, there are few reports outlining considerations for this process among this unique population. Here, the authors use multiple case illustrations to discuss 3 subgroups of clinical considerations for sports retirement among pediatric SRC patients including the following: those with structural brain abnormalities identified on neuroimaging, those presenting with focal neurological deficits and abnormalities on physical examination, and those in whom the cumulative or prolonged effects of concussion are suspected or demonstrated. The authors' evolving multidisciplinary institutional approach to return-to-play and retirement decision making in pediatric SRC is also presented.
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