%0 Journal Article %T Evaluation of a follow-up program for mild traumatic brain injury in schoolchildren %J European journal of paediatric neurology %D 2016 %A Nowacki, R. %A van Eldik, N. %A Eikens, M. %A Roijen, R. %A Haga, N. %A Schott, D. %A Simons-Sporken, T. %A Wennekes, M. %V 21 %N 2 %P 382-387 %X INTRODUCTION: Mild traumatic brain injury is a common condition in childhood. Although classified as mild, post-concussive symptoms may persist and interfere with daily activities. Because no established guidelines exist with respect to follow-up medical care for these children, there may be a delay in receiving appropriate care. We developed a follow up program to screen for persistent symptoms and if necessary, refer patients for further medical assistance.

METHODS: From July 2010 until December 2013, eligible children aged 4-18 years who presented after sustaining a mild traumatic brain injury were included. All patients received a phone call after 6 weeks. After a period of 3 months, both their schoolteacher and parents were asked to complete in a questionnaire. The results were discussed monthly by a multidisciplinary team.

RESULTS: A total of 305 children were enrolled in our follow-up program. Headache was the most common acute symptom upon presentation (63%). Overall, 19% of all patients had problems, either at 6 weeks or 3 months. 14% of these patients were referred for special care. Most common persistent post-concussive symptoms were headache (32%), cognitive problems (23%) and behavioural problems (16%). After a period of two years, a review of patient charts revealed that all of the problems were resolved.

CONCLUSION: One fifth of the children exhibit post-concussive symptoms after mild traumatic brain injury. Education of patients and caregivers and a follow up visit if needed applied appropriate care at an early stage to minimise physical and mental problems.

Copyright © 2016 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Language: en

%G en %I Elsevier Publishing %@ 1090-3798 %U http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ejpn.2016.10.009