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Intellectual, motor, and language sequelae following closed head injury in infants and preschoolers

L Ewing-Cobbs, M E Miner, J M Fletcher

    Journal of Pediatric Psychology
    |December 1, 1989
    PubMed

    Insights

    Children with severe closed head injuries (CHI) show lasting cognitive and motor deficits. Motor and expressive language skills were most affected, regardless of injury severity, impacting development.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Neurology
    • Developmental Psychology
    • Neurorehabilitation

    Background:

    • Traumatic brain injuries, specifically closed head injuries (CHI), can significantly impact cognitive and motor development in young children.
    • Understanding the long-term effects of CHI severity on functional recovery is crucial for early intervention and support.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess cognitive and motor performance in infants and preschoolers following a closed head injury (CHI) during the subacute recovery phase and at 8 months post-injury.
    • To compare outcomes between children with severe CHI versus those with mild-moderate CHI.
    • To identify which functional domains are most vulnerable to CHI.

    Main Methods:

    • A cohort of 21 infants and preschoolers with CHI was evaluated.
    • Cognitive and motor functions were assessed at two time points: subacute recovery and 8 months post-injury.
    • Participants were grouped based on injury severity (severe CHI with impaired consciousness vs. mild-moderate CHI).

    Main Results:

    • Children with severe CHI demonstrated significant impairments in intelligence, motor, expressive language, and receptive language functions at both assessment periods compared to those with milder injuries.
    • Motor and expressive language functions were identified as the most vulnerable domains affected by CHI, irrespective of the injury's severity.
    • Developmental trajectories of cognitive functions varied based on injury severity.

    Conclusions:

    • Severe closed head injuries in early childhood lead to persistent deficits in cognitive and motor abilities.
    • Motor and expressive language functions represent critical areas of concern for children recovering from CHI.
    • The findings highlight the importance of monitoring developmental progress and providing targeted interventions for affected children.

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