Evaluation Of Sport-related Concussion Research Articles

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

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.

Prospective clinical assessment using Sideline Concussion Assessment Tool-2 testing in the evaluation of sport-related concussion in college athletes.

To evaluate the utility of the Sideline Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT)-2 in collegiate athletes with sport-related concussion. Prospective cross-sectional study with baseline testing and serial repeat testing after concussion in contact sport athletes and non-concussed control athletes. Division I University. Male and female club rugby and varsity athletes. Baseline measures of concussion symptoms, cognitive function, and balance were obtained using the SCAT-2. Serial postinjury testing was conducted as clinically indicated. The SCAT-2 total and subset scores were calculated and evaluated at baseline and after injury. The total SCAT-2 score and the composite scores of symptoms, symptom severity, and balance were significantly different in concussed groups after injury when compared with baseline. When comparing performance in concussed versus control athletes, all subcomponents of the SCAT-2 were significantly different. No differences in baseline SCAT-2 scores were seen based on self-reported history of concussion. At baseline, anxiety and depression screening scores were associated with higher symptom scores. When compared with baseline, a 3.5-point drop in SCAT-2 score had 96% sensitivity and 81% specificity in detecting concussion. When examined to exclude baseline scores, a cutoff value of 74.5 was associated with 83% sensitivity and 91% specificity in predicting concussion versus control status. The SCAT-2 total composite score and each subcomponent are useful in the assessment of concussion. As SCAT-3 is similar to SCAT-2, it is expected that it too will be a useful tool.