LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP OF FUNCTIONING AND LIFE SATISFACTION AFTER MODERATE TO SEVERE TBI - AN EXPLORATORY COHORT STUDY

To examine the long-term outcomes after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury with diffuse axonal injury.

A follow-up study of a regional cohort with a mean follow-up period of 5 years post-injury.

Thirty-four participants were recruited from a regional neurointensive care unit. Inclusion criteria were age 16-65 years, a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3-12, and radiologically confirmed diffuse axonal injury.

Follow-up assessments conducted at least 1 year post-injury included global outcome measured by the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended, activities of daily living assessed with the Barthel Index, and life satisfaction evaluated using the LiSat checklist.

More than two-thirds of participants regained independence, and approximately half returned to work or studies. A higher diffuse axonal injury stage was associated with a lower likelihood of returning to work or studies. Over half of respondents reported being satisfied or very satisfied with "life as a whole." Return to work or study was significantly associated with life satisfaction, and there was a trend toward higher satisfaction among those living with a partner.

These findings confirm and extend observations from previous studies, emphasizing key areas for rehabilitation and long-term outcome after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury with diffuse axonal injury.