Management for Sports-related Head Injury

Abstract

  Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are increasingly common in sports, where the majority are classified as mild. Concussion is the most common form of sport-related TBIs, but diagnosis is sometimes challenging because objective and reliable biomarkers have not been established. Early detection and management are essential to prevent prolonged or recurring symptoms. Associated symptoms usually resolve within one week ; however, about 10% of patients suffer from prolonged symptoms over months or years. Initial rest and a graduated return to play protocol have been proposed, intended to prevent relapse of the symptoms. Exploration of concussion pathophysiology using advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and physiological indices may provide clinicians with new biomarkers for treating sport-related TBIs. In this review, we present the current topics in sport-related TBI, particularly concussion, and the pitfalls of diagnosis and management in daily practice.