Prospective clinical assessment using sideline concussion assessment tool-2 testing in the evaluation of sport-related concussion in college athletes

Abstract

Sports-related concussion Sports-related concussion (SRC) is common in contact or collision sport. It is defined as a mild traumatic brain injury and described as a ‘complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces’ and resulting in ‘the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurological function that resolves spontaneously’ (McCrory et al 2013). Signs and symptoms are grouped into four categories: physical signs, behavioural changes, cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances. With adequate rest and therapy, recovery occurs within ten days. Multiple concussions increase the risk of neuropsychological or neuro-opthalmological deficits and late-onset neurodegenerative disease, particularly chronic traumatic encephalopathy (Langlois et al 2006). The UK Acquired Brain Injury Forum estimates that SRC accounts for about 300,000 acquired brain injuries per annum in the UK. Skiing and ice-skating account for about 20,000 cases. This article looks at three recent studies on this topic.