Evaluation and Management of Pediatric Concussion in the Acute Setting
Daniel J Corwin1, Matthew F Grady2, Christina L Master2
1From the Attending Physician, Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Insights
Pediatric concussion, a mild traumatic brain injury, requires updated emergency department (ED) management. This review covers the latest on diagnosis and treatment for concussed youth.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Neurotrauma
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Concussion is a common mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children presenting to emergency departments (EDs).
- Evolving understanding of pediatric concussion pathophysiology necessitates updated clinical guidelines.
- Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for optimal recovery in concussed youth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an up-to-date review of pediatric concussion for ED providers.
- To cover the definition, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of pediatric concussion.
- To emphasize the importance of current best practices in managing concussed children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on pediatric concussion.
- Synthesis of current evidence regarding diagnosis and management strategies.
- Focus on information relevant to the emergency department setting.
Main Results:
- Pediatric concussion diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and symptom assessment.
- Management strategies emphasize symptom-limited activity and gradual return to school/play.
- Recognizing concussion mimics and ruling out more severe TBI is critical.
Conclusions:
- Emergency department providers must stay current with pediatric concussion guidelines.
- Timely and accurate diagnosis improves patient outcomes.
- Evidence-based management is key to safe recovery for concussed children.
Abstract:
Concussion, a type of mild traumatic brain injury, is a common injury encountered by providers caring for pediatric patients in the emergency department (ED) setting. Our understanding of the pathophysiologic basis for symptom and recovery trajectories for pediatric concussion continues to rapidly evolve. As this understanding changes, so do recommendations for optimal management of concussed youth. As more and more children present to EDs across the country for concussion, it is imperative that providers caring for children in these settings remain up-to-date with diagnostic recommendations and management techniques. This article will review the definition, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of pediatric concussion in the ED setting.
