Prospective Tracking and Analysis of Traumatic Brain Injury in Veterans and Military Personnel

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the ongoing Clinical Tracking Form (CTF) study of the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC). DesignProspective longitudinal study. Data at baseline and postinjury are collected on participants through interview and questionnaire, review of medical records, and periodic follow-ups throughout their lifetime. SettingA regional DVBIC site located at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. ParticipantsParticipants (N=211; age range, 18–75y) were enrolled between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2012, at a regional DVBIC site. InterventionNot applicable. Main Outcome MeasuresInjury information, functioning, and psychological health. ResultsSixty percent of 211 participants were identified as having severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), 14% moderate TBIs, and 26% mild TBIs. Of these 211 participants, 79% sustained closed head injuries, 15% penetrating head injuries, and 6% were not reported. Comparing the severity of TBI in combat versus stateside situations, most of the mild injuries (71%) occurred in combat locations, while most of the severe injuries (62%) occurred in the United States. Among those injured in combat, blast-related TBIs (82%) greatly outnumbered non–blast-related TBIs, regardless of severity. ConclusionsThe CTF study serves as a significant resource of data to understand the effect and outcomes of TBI in the military population. The lifelong experience of military veterans across the full spectrum of TBI and recovery will be recorded through the CTF, and will translate into more informed clinical decisions and educational efforts to guide future research pathways.