Traumatic Brain Injury Registry (H-45672)

Background: According to the most current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data on traumatic brain injuries (TBI), about 2.5 million patients present to emergency departments around the U.S. and are diagnosed with TBI. It is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity around the world. TBI is a major public health concern because it can result in persistent or even life-long symptoms. These symptoms can have a significant impact on the patient, family, society and the economy.

Until recently, physicians had focused on severe TBI that may require neurosurgical intervention, while patients with mild TBI have been neglected because they seemed relatively well-appearing. This resulted in a lack of understanding of the pathophysiology of mild TBI and its sequelae. Recent focus on sports-related injuries has generated interest in mild TBI and shed some light on its complications. It is now believed that identification of patients at high risk for protracted symptoms might enable physicians to apply targeted interventions that may minimize symptoms of TBI.

Purpose: Our goal is to create an ED registry of patients who sustained a closed head injury and at risk for concussion. The registry will be used to determine rates of and risk factors for concussion.

Project status: Enrolling

Coordinator Role: screen, consent, enroll and collect data.

Open to students: Yes