Concussion in Sports: Diagnosis and Management

Background: Sport-related concussions are common and should receive special attention since they are potentially serious and can lead to prolonged morbidity. In the last decade structured care algorithms have been constructed to help caregivers in the management of concussion.

Aims: To present recent guidelines and demonstrate structured management of athletes after head trauma.

Methods: Literature search, review of head injury data from medical files of athletes at the Academy for Sport Excellence in the Wingate Institute.

Results: Guidelines and consensus statements published in recent years by FIFA, The Center for Disease Control (CDC), The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, among others. All guidelines include structured medical interviews and examinations for the diagnosis and follow-up of athletes after head trauma. Guidelines also include return to play algorithms in order to shorten recovery duration and prevent complications. In the last two years all athletes suffering from head trauma in the Academy for Sport Excellence were evaluated and managed according to SCAT3 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool – 3rd edition) to diagnose concussion, determine the severity of injury and the need for further evaluation, and to facilitate return to play.

Discussion: Practicing a structured work-up of athletes after head trauma can help in concussion diagnosis and management. Using evidence-based protocols can assist in faster return to play and prevention of long-term sequela.

Conclusions: Knowledge and awareness of head trauma and its consequences, as well as correct management, are important for athletes, medical personnel, coaches and sport managers.