Rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury in adults

Long-term Benefits for Younger Patients with Aggressive Immediate Intervention following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Longitudinal Cohort Analysis of 175 Patients from a Prospective Registry

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) continues to rise, in part as a reflection of a growing elderly population. Concomitantly, nihilism may exist following substantial neurotrauma from a myriad of commonplace mechanisms, such as traffic incidents, assaults, or falls.

OBJECTIVE

This study assesses long-term outcomes following aggressive surgical intervention with invasive neuromonitoring to guard against nihilism, especially for patients with advantageous characteristics such as younger age.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with severe TBI treated between 2008 and 2018 and enrolled into the Brain Trauma Research Center (BTRC) database, an Institutional Review Board (IRB 19030228) approved prospective, longitudinal cohort study, were extracted. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed. Long-term functional outcome was recorded with the eight-point Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOS-E) score at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-months by trained, qualified neuropsychology technicians. Chi-squared and analysis of variance tests were used to evaluate the relationship of age groups between different variables.

RESULTS

For this analysis, 175 patients with severe TBI who were enrolled in the BTRC database and required decompressive hemicraniectomy during the study period were included. Over one-third of the patients with a severe TBI, who were aged 35 years and younger, had a favorable outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite enduring a severe TBI, a substantial percentage of younger patients achieved favorable outcomes following aggressive treatment. As such, establishing a prognosis should be deferred to allow for recovery via individualized rehabilitation, multidisciplinary support, and community reintegration programs to cope with various long-term psychological, cognitive, and functional disabilities.

Clinical and rehabilitative considerations in a complex case of spastic tetraplegia, mixed aphasia, secondary encephalopathy – post severe traumatic brain injury with hemorrhagic and is-chemic lesions – with favorable late evolution and post-symptomatic status after SARS-COV-2 infection

The traumatic brain injury remains a current research topic considering the severity and the in-creased incidence of this pathology. Both physical and neuro-psychological sequelae require a complex rehabilitation program. Material and methods. We describe the evolution of a 20-year-old case, victim of a severe traumatic brain injury due to physical aggression, with spastic te-traplegia, extended ischemia in the left cerebral hemisphere, mixed aphasia, post-traumatic en-cephalopathy, left eyelid ptosis, right paresis of nerve III, post remitted status of left subdural hematoma, post remitted status of right fronto-parietal subarachnoid hemorrhage, severe joint stiffness (right elbow and fist, bilateral hips and knees), cachexia and SARS-COV-2 infection. In our clinic the patient followed medical, complex kinetotherapeutic treatments and was functio-nally assessed using the following scales: modified Ashworth, Penn Spasm Frequency Scale ( Penn), Life Quality Assessment ( QOL ), Montreal Cognitive Assessment ( MoCA ), FAC Interna-tional Scale, Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOS-E), modified Rankin scale (mRS ). Results. During the hospitalization, the patient presented a favorable late evolution with a great impro-vement of motor and neurological deficit, aphasia in remision, improvement of eyelid ptosis and joint stiffness, fact also confirmed by the increasing scores from the evaluated scales. Con-clusions. Consequently in traumatic brain injury the proper medication, personalized rehabilita-tion program, ergotherapy, speech therapy, a great deal of involvement and documentation of current information is required to improve the patient's quality of life. Keywords: traumatic brain injury, neuro-rehabilitation program, spastic tetraplegia

The importance of multidisciplinary team in the treatment of severe traumatic brain injury

Noticeable advances have occurred in the field of traumatic brain injury in the past ten years. Brain imagery provides a more precise representation of what occurs in the brain, diffuse axonal injury being an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with traumatic brain injury. We present 2 cases that were admitted and discharged from our department. Actually we want to emphasize differences and similarities between the two cases and to highlight different sequelae that traumatic brain injury can do in young patients. Both patients were admitted in a critical state – GCS 4 points and were discharged with an improved neurological status after approximately 30 days. We decided to present these cases to issue a warning about the rehabilitation for these patients which most of the times have a prolonged hospitalization. We wanted to highlight that the rehabilitation does not consist only in the motor part, but in the psychiatric and behaviour part too.

The role of autoimmunity in pituitary dysfunction due to traumatic brain injury

PURPOSE

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common causes of mortality and long-term disability and it is associated with an increased prevalence of neuroendocrine dysfunctions. Post-traumatic hypopituitarism (PTHP) results in major physical, psychological and social consequences leading to impaired quality of life. PTHP can occur at any time after traumatic event, evolving through various ways and degrees of deficit, requiring appropriate screening for early detection and treatment. Although the PTHP pathophysiology remains to be elucitated, on the basis of proposed hypotheses it seems to be the result of combined pathological processes, with a possible role played by hypothalamic-pituitary autoimmunity (HPA). This review is aimed at focusing on this possible role in the development of PTHP and its potential clinical consequences, on the basis of the data so far appeared in the literature and of some results of personal studies on this issue.

METHODS

Scrutinizing the data so far appeared in literature on this topic, we have found only few studies evaluating the autoimmune pattern in affected patients, searching in particular for antipituitary and antihypothalamus autoantibodies (APA and AHA, respectively) by simple indirect immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

The presence of APA and/or AHA at high titers was associated with an increased risk of onset/persistence of PTHP.

CONCLUSIONS

HPA seems to contribute to TBI-induced pituitary damage and related PTHP. However, further prospective studies in a larger cohort of patients are needed to define etiopathogenic and diagnostic role of APA/AHA in development of post-traumatic hypothalamic/pituitary dysfunctions after a TBI.

In-patient neuropsychiatric brain injury rehabilitation

Aims and Method

To discuss the service offered by an in-patient neuropsychiatric brain injury rehabilitation unit. To examine the demographic details of patients admitted to the unit. To find the commonest reasons for referral.

Results

The notes of 78 patients admitted to the unit, over a two-year period, were examined. Seventy-three per cent were male and the mean age was 45 years. Seventy-five per cent of admissions had a severe brain injury. Two-thirds of the patients were admitted within six months of their injury. The most common reasons for referral were memory difficulties (n=61), verbal aggression (n=31) and temper control(n=25).

Clinical Implications

In-patient neuropsychiatric brain injury rehabilitation units offer management of patients referred with a wide range of cognitive, behavioural, functional and physical problems.

Cognitive Event-Related Potentials during the Sub-Acute Phase of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury and Their Relationship to Outcome

Predicting outcome in the early phase after severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) is a major clinical challenge, particularly identifying patients with potential for good cognitive outcome. The current single-center prospective study aimed to explore presence and normalization of electroencephalography (EEG)-based event-related potentials (ERPs) in the early phase followings TBI, and their relationship to functional and cognitive outcome 6 months post-injury. Fourteen adult patients (eight males) with sTBI were recruited from the neurointensive care unit (mean age = 38.2 years [standard deviation (SD) = 14.7]; mean lowest Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score within first 24 h = 5.4, SD = 1.87). EEG recordings were conducted biweekly at three time-points applying an ERP paradigm encompassing a passive condition involving hearing their own name randomly interspersed between an unfamiliar name (UN), and an active condition with instruction to count their own name. Functional and cognitive outcome 6 months post-injury was measured with Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOSE) and neuropsychological tests of attention and memory. Ten patients demonstrated a significantly enhanced cognitive P3 in the active counting task compared with passive listening across recordings, and six presented with normalization of P3 in the counting task. Moreover, P3 amplitude to the counting task at the third time-point was positively correlated with both functional outcome (GOSE) and cognition (verbal learning, attentional set-shifting, and switching) 6 months post-injury. ERP can index cognitive capacities in the early phase following sTBI, and the cognitive P3 component in an active design is associated with functional and cognitive outcome, demonstrating that the cognitive P3 may yield valuable information of residual cognition and provide supplementary prognostic information.

Pressure to Progress: Severe Traumatic Brain Injury and Slow Recovery in the Current Health Care Environment

This paper discusses issues arising from a study of referral from acute care following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Queensland, in which aged care facilities were relied upon for the discharge of those with slow recovery after severe TBI. The discussion considers: (1) recovery following severe TBI; (2) the current policy context; (3) approaches to care beyond acute care; and (4) implications for policy and practice. In the current health care environment, with increasing pressure on scarce resources, it is critical that practitioners advocate for the dignity and care of people who sustain severe TBI and who are slow to recover.

Classical and non-classical causes of GH deficiency in adults

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) can develop due to a variety of conditions, and may occur either as isolated or multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies. It has been previously demonstrated that GH is one of the most frequent hormonal deficiencies in adult patients with hypopituitarism. The most frequent classical causes of adult-onset GHD (AO-GHD) are pituitary adenomas and/or their treatment. However, during the last decade an increasing number of studies from different parts of the world have revealed that non-tumoural causes of hypopituitarism are more common than previously known. Therefore, in this review our aim is to briefly summarize the classical and non-classical acquired causes of GHD in adults.

Sudden and Unexpected Health Situation: From Suffering to Resilience

Grieving is a phenomenon usually experienced upon the death of a loved one. However, other situations involving loss may prove just as difficult and involve a grieving process: loss of identity, loss of use of a limb or a sense such as sight or hearing, inability to achieve certain ambitions, loss of autonomy, moving house, job loss, separation or divorce, child leaving home, retirement, illness, death of a pet. This article aims at describing the grieving process and the specific stakes of a sudden and unexpected health situation, as the traumatic brain injury. The model proposed by the authors is presented and illustrated by a clinical example. Implications for health professionals' practice are described, in terms of partnership, which is a useful strategy that can make this difficult period a positive experience for families and health professionals alike.

The Incidence of Neurologic Susceptibility to a Skull Defect

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether there is a measureable change in neurologic function after cranioplasty.

METHODS

This is a prospective single-surgeon, single-center study. Fifty patients who required a cranioplasty procedure were assessed neurologically within 72 hours before and 7 days after surgery. The assessment tools were the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the Cognitive assessment report (Cognistat). The scores for both assessments were calculated and then compared before and after surgery.

RESULTS

FIM assessment was performed on all fifty patients, and a Cognistat assessment was performed on 47 patients. Most improvements were seen in the Cognistat scores; however, there appeared to be no specific areas in which there was consistent improvement. There were substantial improvements in the Cognistat assessment in 9 patients. One patient had a much-improved FIM assessment (improved from 18 to 34), but a Cognistat assessment was not possible because of poor neurologic function. These results suggested that improvements after cranioplasty were more likely to occur in the domain of cognitive function than motor function, although overall these results did not reach statistically significance. Bifrontal (vs. unilateral) cranioplasty, timing between decompression and cranioplasty, and age of the patients did not appear to affect the postoperative FIM scores, after we adjusted for preoperative FIM scores and surgical complications.

CONCLUSIONS

A small but significant number of patients appear to improve clinically after cranioplasty. Neurologic susceptibility to a skull defect may be more common than had been appreciated previously.

Trajectories of life satisfaction after traumatic brain injury: Influence of life roles, age, cognitive disability, and depressive symptoms

OBJECTIVES

(a) Identify life satisfaction trajectories after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI); (b) establish a predictive model for these trajectories across the first 5 years postinjury; and (c) describe differences in these life satisfaction trajectory groups, focusing on age, depressive symptoms, disability, and participation in specific life roles.

RESEARCH METHOD

Analysis of the longitudinal TBI Model Systems National Database was performed on data collected prospectively at 1-, 2-, and 5-years post-TBI. Participants (n = 3,012) had a moderate to severe TBI and were 16 years old and older.

RESULTS

Four life satisfaction trajectories were identified across the first 5 years postinjury, including: stable satisfaction, initial satisfaction declining, initial dissatisfaction improving, and stable dissatisfaction. Age, depressive symptoms, cognitive disability, and life role participation as a worker, leisure participant, and/ or religious participant at 1-year postinjury significantly predicted trajectory group membership. Life role participation and depressive symptoms were strong predictors of life satisfaction trajectories across the first 5 years post-TBI.

CONCLUSIONS

The previously documented loss of life roles and prevalence of depression after a moderate to severe TBI make this a vulnerable population for whom low or declining life satisfaction is a particularly high risk. Examining individual life role participation may help to identify relevant foci for community-based rehabilitation interventions or supports.

Functional level during the first 2 years after moderate and severe traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Long-term outcomes after TBI are examined to a large extent, but longitudinal studies with more than 1-year follow-up time after injury have been fewer in number. The course of recovery may vary due to a number of factors and it is still somewhat unclear which factors are contributing.

AIM

The aim of this study was to describe the functional level at four time points up to 24 months after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to evaluate the predictive impact of pre-injury and injury-related factors.

DESIGN

A cohort study.

SETTING

Outpatient.

POPULATION

Sixty-five patients with moderate (n = 21) or severe (n = 44) TBI.

METHODS

The patients with TBI were examined with Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) at 3 months, 12 months and 24 months after injury. Possible predictors were analysed in a regression model using FIM total score at 24 months as the outcome measure.

RESULTS

FIM scores improved significantly from rehabilitation unit discharge to 24 months after injury, with peak levels at 3 and 24 months after injury (p < 0.001), for the whole TBI group and the group with severe TBI. The moderate TBI group did not show significant FIM score improvement during this time period. GOSE scores for the whole group and the moderate group improved significantly over time, but the severe group did not. FIM at admission to the rehabilitation unit and GCS score at admission to the rehabilitation unit were closest to being significant predictors of FIM total scores 24 months after injury (B = 0.265 and 2.883, R(2 )= 0.39, p = 0.073, p = 0.081).

CONCLUSION

FIM levels improved during the period from rehabilitation unit discharge to 3 months follow-up; thereafter, there was a 'plateauing' of recovery. In contrast, GOSE 'plateauing' of recovery was at 12 months.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

The study results may indicate that two of the most used outcome measures in TBI research are more relevant for assessment of the functional recovery in a sub-acute phase than in later stages of TBI recovery.

Effects of traumatic brain injury on locomotor adaptation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Locomotor adaptation is a form of short-term learning that enables gait modifications and reduces movement errors when the environment changes. This adaptation is critical for community ambulation for example, when walking on different surfaces. While many individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) recover basic ambulation, less is known about recovery of more complex locomotor skills, like adaptation. The purpose of this study was to investigate how TBI affects locomotor adaptation.

METHODS

Fourteen adults with TBI and 11 nondisabled comparison participants walked for 15 minutes on a split-belt treadmill with 1 belt moving at 0.7 m/s, and the other at 1.4 m/s. Subsequently, aftereffects were assessed and de-adapted during 15 minutes of tied-belt walking (both belts at 0.7 m/s).

RESULTS

Participants with TBI showed greater asymmetry in interlimb coordination on split-belts than the comparison group. Those with TBI did not adapt back to baseline symmetry, and some individuals did not store significant aftereffects. Greater asymmetry on split-belts and smaller aftereffects were associated with greater ataxia.

DISCUSSION

Participants with TBI were more perturbed by walking on split-belts and showed some impairment in adaptation. This suggests a reduced ability to learn a new form of coordination to compensate for environmental changes. Multiple interacting factors, including cerebellar damage and impairments in higher-level cognitive processes, may influence adaptation post-TBI.

CONCLUSIONS

Gait adaptation to novel environment demands is impaired in persons with chronic TBI and may be an important skill to target in rehabilitation.

VIDEO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE

(See Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A74) for more insights from the authors.

Neurological susceptibility to a skull defect

BACKGROUND

There continues to be considerable interest in the use of decompressive craniectomy in the management of neurological emergencies. The procedure is technically straightforward; however, it is becoming increasingly apparent that it is associated with significant complications. One complication that has received relatively little attention is the neurological dysfunction that can occur due to the absence of the bone flap and the subsequent distortion of the brain under the scalp as cerebral swelling subsides. The aim of this narrative review was to examine the literature available regarding the clinical features described, outline the proposed pathophysiology for these clinical manifestations and highlight the implications that this may have for rehabilitation of patients with a large skull defect.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in the MEDLINE database (1966 to June 2012). The following keywords were used: Hemicraniectomy, decompressive craniectomy, complications, syndrome of the trephined, syndrome of the sinking scalp flap, motor trephined syndrome. The bibliographies of retrieved reports were searched for additional references.

RESULTS

Various terms have been used to describe the different neurological signs and symptoms with which patients with a skull defect can present. These include; syndrome of the trephined, posttraumatic syndrome, syndrome of the sinking scalp flap, and motor trephined syndrome. There is, however, considerable overlap between the conditions described and a patient's individual clinical presentation.

CONCLUSION

It is becoming increasingly apparent that certain patients are particularly susceptible to the presence of a large skull defect. The term "Neurological Susceptibility to a Skull Defect" (NSSD) is therefore suggested as a blanket term to describe any neurological change attributable to the absence of cranial coverage.

Impact of head trauma on pituitary function

There have been in the past decade a growing number of studies relating head trauma to hypopituitarism. This condition may affect the rehabilitation process, and identification of such patients is therefore required. However, the widely different methods used so far for this purpose have provided inconsistent results. The incidence rate of hypopituitarism has probably been overestimated. This review focuses on the impact of head trauma on pituitary function, the diagnostic method, risk factors, and treatment options.

Council of Australian Governments' (COAG) Initiative for Young People With Disability in Residential Aged Care: What Are the Issues for Acquired Brain Injury?

People surviving severe acquired brain injury (ABI) may potentially benefit from the Council of Australian Governments' (COAG) 5-year initiative for young people with disability in residential aged-care facilities. Yet critical examination of this policy initiative for ABI population is warranted for 2 reasons. First, reliance on the disability sector to resolve the complexities of long-term care for people with ABI detracts attention from systemic failures at the health/disability sector interface, and notably, debate concerning the role of, and right to rehabilitation. Second, the COAG initiative is being pursued within an extraordinarily complex and variable contemporary care environment, involving multiple services and sectors, and historically, high unmet need. This raises questions as to the adequacy and sustainability of care provided under the responsibility of state-based disability services. In this article, it is argued that long-term care for young people with severe ABI is better served by incorporating a health and rehabilitation perspective alongside a disability support approach. Although the effectiveness of rehabilitation may be contested in some instances of very severe ABI, nevertheless the role of rehabilitation in seeking to reduce the number of young people at risk of entering residential aged care needs to be addressed in policy solutions. It is also suggested that provision of long time care in the contemporary care environment involves a number of challenges due to the complex and changing patterns of need, diverse funding arrangements and mix of government and nongovernment services, and the increasing demand for care.

Does an early onset and continuous chain of rehabilitation improve the long-term functional outcome of patients with severe traumatic brain injury?

There are currently no international guidelines regarding treatment in the early rehabilitation phase for persons with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), and only a few studies have investigated the effect of integrating rehabilitation into acute TBI care. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether a continuous chain of rehabilitation that begins with the acute phase could improve the functional outcome of severe TBI patients, compared to a broken chain of rehabilitation that starts in the sub-acute phase of TBI. A total of 61 surviving patients with severe TBI were included in a quasi-experimental study conducted at the Level I trauma center in Eastern Norway. In the study, 31 patients were in the early rehabilitation group (Group A) and 30 patients were in the delayed rehabilitation group (Group B). The functional outcomes were assessed 12 months post-injury with the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) and the Disability Rating Scale (DRS). A favorable outcome (GOSE 6-8) occurred in 71% of the patients from Group A versus 37% in Group B (p=0.007). The DRS score was significantly better in Group A (p=0.03). The ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to quantify the relationship between the type of rehabilitation chain and the GOSE. A better GOSE outcome was found in patients from Group A (unadjusted OR 3.25 and adjusted OR 2.78, respectively). These results support the hypothesis that better functional outcome occurs in patients who receive early onset and a continuous chain of rehabilitation.

Comparison of subjective and objective assessments of outcome after traumatic brain injury using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)

PURPOSE

The aim is to examine two aspects of outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Functional outcome was assessed by the Glasgow Outcome Scale - Extended (GOSE) and by clinician ratings, while health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed by the Quality of Life after Brain Injury (QOLIBRI).

METHOD

The GOSE and the QOLIBRI were linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to analyse their content. Functional outcome on ICF categories was assessed by rehabilitation clinicians in 55 participants with TBI and was compared to the participants' own judgements of their HRQoL.

RESULTS

The QOLIBRI was linked to 42 and the GOSE to 57 two-level ICF categories covering 78% of the categories on the ICF brief core set for TBI. The closest agreement in the views of the professionals and the participants was found on the Physical Problems and Cognition scales of the QOLIBRI.

CONCLUSIONS

The problems encountered after TBI are well covered by the QOLIBRI and the GOSE. They capture important domains that are not traditionally sufficiently documented, especially in the domains of interpersonal relationships, social and leisure activities, self and the environment. The findings indicate that they are useful and complementary outcome measures for TBI. In rehabilitation, they can serve as tools in assessment, setting meaningful goals and creating therapeutic alliance.

Early rehabilitation of comatose patients after traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

As a result of improvements in the rescue system and progress in intensive care therapy, an increasing number of patients have survived severe traumatic brain injury in recent years. Early and consistent administration of the correct rehabilitation programme is of crucial importance for the restoration and improvement of cerebral function, as well as social reintegration. This prospective study was conducted at the neurosurgical department of a university hospital to assess the one-year outcome of comatose patients after severe traumatic brain injury.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-seven patients were included. Patients received multimodal early-onset stimulation and continuous inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation therapy. One-year outcome was assessed by means of the Glasgow Outcome Scale, Barthel Index, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and need of care.

RESULTS

Seven patients died, 4 remained in a vegetative state, 7 were severely disabled, 6 were moderately disabled, and 3 achieved a good recovery 12 months after injury. Median Barthel Index was 65 and median FIM score was 84. The majority of patients were still at least intermittently dependent on care.

CONCLUSION

Despite intensive rehabilitation treatment, severe traumatic brain injury is still burdened with significant mortality and morbidity.

Functional level during sub-acute rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury: course and predictors of outcome

OBJECTIVES

To describe the functional level during sub-acute rehabilitation after moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to evaluate the impact of pre-injury and injury-related factors as predictors of early recovery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective study of 55 patients with moderate (n = 21) and severe (n = 34) TBI who received specialized, inpatient rehabilitation. Functional level was assessed by the FIM. Possible predictors were analysed in a regression model using FIM total score at discharge as outcome.

RESULTS

At discharge from sub-acute rehabilitation, on average 53 (+/-24) days post-injury, 57% of moderate TBI patients and 91% of severe TBI patients were still disabled with a FIM score < 126. The disability was mild (FIM 109-126) in 95% with moderate TBI and in 62% with severe TBI. The disability was severe (FIM < 72) in 24% with severe TBI. Only one patient did not improve. Predictors of functional level at discharge from rehabilitation were Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at rehabilitation admission (B = 5.991), FIM total score at rehabilitation admission (B = 0.393), length of stay (LOS) in the rehabilitation unit (B = 0.264) and length of Post-Traumatic Amnesia (PTA) (B = -0.120). Together, these predictors explained 86% of variance of FIM total scores at discharge.

CONCLUSION

Less than half of moderate TBI patients reached a normal functional level at discharge from sub-acute rehabilitation. A short PTA period, a high GCS score and FIM score at admission to rehabilitation and a longer stay in the rehabilitation unit were positive predictors of functional level at discharge.

[Neuroendocrine dysfunction and brain damage. A consensus statement]

This consensus statement aims to enhance awareness of the incidence and risks of hypopituitarism in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and/or brain hemorrhages among physicians treating patients with brain damage. The importance of this problem is related not only to the frequency of TBI but also to its prevalence in younger populations. The consequences of TBI are characterized by a series of symptoms that depend on the type of sequels related to neuroendocrine dysfunction. The signs and symptoms of hypopituitarism are often confused with those of other sequels of TBI. Consequently, patients with posttraumatic hypopituitarism may receive suboptimal rehabilitation unless the underlying hormone deficiency is identified and treated. This consensus is based on the recommendation supported by expert opinion that patients with a TBI and/or brain hemorrhage should undergo endocrine evaluation in order to assess pituitary function and, if deficiency is detected, should receive hormone replacement therapy.

Hypogonadism after traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the most common cause of death and disability in young adults. Post-TBI neuroendocrine disorders have been increasingly acknowledged in recent years due to their potential contribution to morbidity and, probably, to mortality after trauma. Marked alterations of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis during the post-TBI acute and chronic phases have been reported. Prospective and longitudinal studies have shown that some abnormalities are transitory. On the other hand, there is a high frequency (15% to 68%) of pituitary hormone deficiency among TBI survivors in a long term setting. Post-TBI hypogonadism is a common finding after cranial trauma, and it is predicted to develop in 16% of the survivors in the long term. Post-TBI hypogonadism has been associated with adverse results in the acute and chronic phases after injury. These data reinforce the need for identification of hormonal deficiencies and their proper treatment, in order to optimize patient recovery, improve their life quality, and avoid the negative consequences of non-treated hypogonadism in the long term.

Heart rate variability (HRV) of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) during the post-insult sub-acute period

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate heart rate variability (HRV) of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS

By a prospective study, the HRV was assessed in 20 patients with TBI during the sub-acute period post-injury (the first test was performed at a mean time post-insult of 38 days) and a matched control. The patients were examined twice, 1 month apart. The assessment included HRV (both in time and frequency domains), GCS, length of coma, brain CT, FIM and FAM.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found between patients and controls concerning HRV total power, i.e. frequencies between 0.01-0.6 Hz (high frequency p = 0.003, low frequency p = 0.013, total power p = 0.034) and for standard deviation of RR interval p = 0.011. HRV changes were related more to the timing of the evaluation than to the severity of the brain damage.

CONCLUSION

HRV differed of patients with TBI and in the control group. Tendency to HRV normalization changes was detected during the first 3 months after the injury, which suggests recovery of the autonomic nervous system.

Cost-benefits associated with social outcome from neurobehavioural rehabilitation

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

To carry out a clinical and cost-outcome evaluation of a neurobehavioural post-acute rehabilitation programme in the UK.

RESEARCH DESIGN

The study was a multi-centre prospective cohort study of adults with acquired brain injury admitted for residential rehabilitation. Comprehensive data were collected on type of residence, amount and type of care, functional independence, engagement in constructive occupation and participation in social roles.

PROCEDURES

Data were gathered on admission relating to individuals' levels of care and functioning, both pre-morbidly and at the time of admission (pre-rehabilitation). Additional information about functioning was collected upon discharge (post-rehabilitation). Follow-up data was collated in person, by telephone or by post after an average of 18 months by a researcher who was blind to the rehabilitation outcomes. The data were analysed in terms of clinical outcomes and support costs. Savings in costs of care or support were calculated on the basis of difference between pre-rehabilitation and follow-up support costs minus the costs of rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Significant gains were evident at discharge and follow-up in virtually all indices of social outcome. Improvements were recorded in type of accommodation, levels of care, functional ability, productive occupation and performance of social roles. Patients admitted within 1 year of injury made the most progress, but improvements were made regardless of time since injury. Patients continued to benefit from rehabilitation well beyond the period when most natural recovery would take place. Economic calculations suggested that the initial costs of rehabilitation are generally offset by savings in care costs within 2 years. Sensitivity analysis on estimated savings in care costs yielded projected lifetime savings of between Pounds 1.1-0.8 M for persons admitted for rehabilitation within 12 months of injury, Pounds 0.7- Pounds 0.5 M within 2 years of injury and Pounds 0.5-0.36 M for admissions after 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Specialist rehabilitation for neurobehavioural disability produces comprehensive and sustainable improvements in the life of individuals with brain injury. The initial costs associated with neurobehavioural rehabilitation are offset by savings in costs of support in the medium and longer term.

Aquatics, health-promoting self-care behaviours and adults with brain injuries

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of an aquatic programme on the health promoting behaviours of adults with brain injuries.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

Eighteen individuals participated in the programme and were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 9) or control group (n = 9). Health promoting behaviours, physical self-concept and self-esteem were measured pre- and post-intervention. Significant differences and large effect sizes were found between scores for the experimental group only, indicating an increase in health promoting behaviours, physical self-concept and self-esteem.

CONCLUSIONS

Results have useful implications for health professionals as exercise prescription may enhance health promoting behaviours and decrease health care costs after a brain injury.

Functional outcome at 1 vs. 2 years after severe traumatic brain injury

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (STBI) after 12 and 24 months (Glasgow Coma Scale GCS < or = 8 points for at least 24 hours).

METHODS

A total of 51 patients underwent a multidisciplinary early rehabilitation treatment until they were discharged from hospital and local ambulatory care was deemed sufficient. The follow-up examination took place 12 and 24 months after the STBI.

RESULTS

Data revealed a high level of independence in activities of daily living (mean Barthel Index after 1 year 92.7 points, after 2 years 93.7 points). After 1 and 2 years, 74.5% and 80.4% of the patients, respectively, were completely independent of need for care. Nevertheless, more than half of the patients had sensorimotor, behavioural, speech, visual and/or auditory disturbances. Return to work rates improved between 1-2 years after trauma, as evidenced by the rate of patients being back to full time work at 1 year (n = 14, 28%) and 2 years (n = 20, 40%) post-STBI; although none of these changes reached statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

In summary, there are still changes in both impairment and disability related areas between 1-2 years post-STBI, but the degree of improvement is variable depending on the area being considered. Clinicians should remain aware of the fact that modulation of impairment and disability appear to continue well beyond 1 year post-STBI, which may impact on decisions regarding the provision and intensity of further rehabilitation efforts.

Long-term outcome in severe traumatic brain injury is significantly influenced by brainstem involvement

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

To study the 1-year-outcome of 32 survivors of severe traumatic brain injury with respect to the impact of brainstem injury.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study performed in a university hospital.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Thirty-two 1-year-survivors (15 with brainstem injury present) of severe traumatic brain injury were investigated for neurological function, activities of daily living, need for care and professional ability.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

Visual impairment, spasticity, co-ordination deficits and organic psychosis were more frequent in the group harbouring brainstem lesions. Professional ability was worse among these patients.

CONCLUSION

Brainstem involvement in survivors of severe traumatic brain injury conveys a negative impact on long-term outcome.

The impact of hypopituitarism on function and performance in subjects with recent history of traumatic brain injury and aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

To correlate deficient pituitary function with life satisfaction and functional performance in subjects with a recent history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH).

RESEARCH DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Eighteen subjects with TBI and 16 subjects with SAH underwent pituitary hormonal and functional assessments 5-12 months following the event. Adrenal reserve was assessed with a 1 mcg cosyntropin stimulation test and growth hormone deficiency (GHD) was diagnosed by insufficient GH response to GHRH-Arginine stimulation. Assessments of life satisfaction and performance-function included the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique (CHART) and the Mayo Portland Adaptability Inventory-4 (MPAI-4).

RESULTS

Hypopituitarism was present in 20 (58.8%) subjects, including 50% with adrenal insufficiency. Hypothyroidism correlated with worse performance on SWLS and CHART measures. GHD was associated with poorer performance on CHART and MPAI-4 scale.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series of subjects with history of TBI and SAH, hypothyroidism and GHD were associated with diminished life satisfaction and performance-function on multiple assessments. Further studies are necessary to determine the appropriate testing of adrenal reserve in this population and to determine the benefit of pituitary hormone replacement therapy on function following brain injury.

Three years prospective investigation of anterior pituitary function after traumatic brain injury: a pilot study

OBJECTIVE

It has been recently demonstrated that traumatic brain injury (TBI)-mediated hypopituitarism could be more frequent than previously known. However, most of the previous data were obtained from retrospective studies, and the natural history of the hypopituitarism due to TBI is still unclear. So far no study has been reported in which the pituitary function of the same patients has been investigated more than 1 year after TBI. Therefore, we report the results of 3 years prospective follow-up of anterior pituitary function in patients with mild, moderate and severe TBI.

PATIENTS AND DESIGN

Thirty patients (25 males, 5 females; age 37.2 +/- 2.4 years) with TBI were included in the study. Pituitary function was evaluated at 1 and 3 years after TBI.

RESULTS

After individual evaluation of GH deficiency from 1 year to 3 years after TBI, 7 of 13 (53.8%) GH-deficient patients at 1st year recovered after 3 years of TBI, and GH deficiency detected at 3 years in one patient was new onset. Additionally, five of six (83.3%) ACTH-deficient patients at 1st year recovered after 3 years of TBI, and ACTH deficiency detected at 3 years in one patient was new onset.

CONCLUSIONS

GH deficiency is the most common pituitary deficit 1 and 3 years after TBI. In patients with mild and moderate TBI, pituitary function improves over time in a considerable number of patients, but it may also worsen rarely over the 3-year period. In patients with severe TBI, ACTH and GH deficiencies at 1st year evaluation persist at 3rd year.

The experience of fatigue in the first 2 years after moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury: a preliminary report

Fatigue is a well-recognized issue for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). This prospective study examined the rate and types of fatigue that are experienced by a cohort of individuals with TBI within the first 2 years, using a multidimensional fatigue scale. The impact of factors such as demographics, injury severity indices, and concomitant psychosocial variables was also examined. Using 2 measures of overall fatigue, 16%-32% at Year 1 and 21%-34% at Year 2 reported significant levels of fatigue. Fatigue did not appear to change between 1 and 2 years post-TBI. Sleep quality was the most prevalent concomitant disturbance followed by depression and pain.

Fatigue after TBI: association with neuroendocrine abnormalities

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the association between neuroendocrine findings and fatigue after traumatic brain injury (TBI) Research design: Prospective, observational.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Sixty-four individuals at least 1 year post-TBI underwent neuroendocrine testing including thyroid, adrenal, gonadal axes and growth hormone (GH) after glucagon stimulation with assessment of fatigue using the Global Fatigue Index (GFI) and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

GFI and FSS scores were significantly higher within this sample compared to published control data. At least one pituitary axis was abnormal in 90% of participants. Higher GH levels were significantly associated with higher FSS scores. There was a noted trend between lower basal cortisol and higher scores on both the FSS and GFI.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between higher GH levels and greater fatigue contradicted the prevailing hypothesis that post-acute TBI fatigue is associated with GH deficiency. The association between lower basal cortisol and greater fatigue was in the expected direction. While no other trends were noted, the fatigue derived from neuroendocrine abnormalities alone may be masked by fatigue induced by other factors commonly experienced following TBI. Given the high prevalence of pituitary abnormalities, screening for hypopituitarism after TBI is a reasonable recommendation. The contribution of GH deficiency to diminished quality of life post-TBI remains unclear.

Pituitary functions in the acute phase of traumatic brain injury: are they related to severity of the injury or mortality?

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

There are only limited data regarding pituitary functions in the acute phase of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and previous studies have been conducted in only small cohorts of subjects. Therefore we have investigated the pituitary functions in the early acute phase, within 24 hours of trauma, in 104 patients with TBI. Additionally, the relationships between basal pituitary hormones, severity of the trauma and mortality due to trauma were also investigated.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

One hundred and four TBI patients were included in the study consecutively. All patients underwent basal hormonal evaluation within the first 24 hours of admission. Twenty of 104 patients died during the acute phase.

MAIN OUTCOMES

Prolactin levels were negatively correlated with the Glasgow coma scale (GCS), cortisol levels were positively correlated with the GCS and cortisol levels were positively correlated with ACTH levels. Additionally there was a significant positive correlation between the total testosterone levels and the GCS in males. Logistic regression analysis revealed that mortality after TBI was unrelated to basal pituitary hormone levels. However age and GCS were significantly related to the mortality. The percentages of pituitary hormone deficiencies were as follows: 3.8% had TSH deficiency, 40.0% had gonadotrophin deficiency, 8.8% had ACTH deficiency and 20.0% had GH deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Present data clearly demonstrate that pituitary function is disturbed in TBI and the most frequently deficient pituitary hormones were gonadotrophins in the early acute phase of TBI. Basal hormone levels including cortisol, prolactin and total testosterone were related to the severity of the trauma. However there was no relation between basal hormones and mortality due to TBI. Age and GCS were significantly related to mortality.

Le Profil du Loisir, un instrument prometteur en ergothérapie

Description : Les bienfaits du loisir sont bien connus, mais peu d'instruments ont été conçus dans l'optique de mesurer l'engagement d'une personne dans ses loisirs et d'évaluer les facteurs personnels ou environnementaux qui diminuent sa capacité de s'y engager. But : Cet article à pour but de présenter les étapes du développement du Profil du Loisir entre 1990 et 2002. Méthodologie : La planification, la construction et la validation de l'outil ont été faites selon les étapes de Benson et Clark (1982). Les premières versions ont été expérimentées par des ergothérapeutes auprès de personnes ayant eu un traumatisme cranio-cérébral. Résultats : La validation a permis l'élaboration de la version finale (3.0). L'outil présente une fidélité inter-juges allant de acceptable (kappa 0,21–0,4) à très bien (0,61–0,80) et test-retest de acceptable à modérée (0,41–0,60). Conséquences pour la pratique : Le Profil du Loisir s'avère prometteur pour amener les ergothérapeutes à considérer le loisir dans leur pratique et à l'évaluer de façon systématique.

Hypopituitarism following traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the commonest cause of death and disability in young adults living in industrialised countries. Recently, several studies have shown that hypopituitarism is a common complication of head trauma, with a prevalence of at least 25% among patients who were studied months or years following injury. This remarkably high frequency has changed the traditional concept of hypopituitarism being a rare complication of TBI, and suggests that most cases of posttraumatic hypopituitarism remain undiagnosed and untreated in clinical practice. It is therefore reasonable to infer that posttraumatic hypopituitarism may have an important contribution to the high physical and neuropsychiatric morbidity seen in patients with head injury. This article discusses the published reports on neuroendocrine dysfunction in TBI patients and the natural history of this disorder. The potential impact of posttraumatic hypopituitarism on recovery and rehabilitation after injury will also be examined, as well as the need for the identification, and appropriate and timely management of hormone deficiencies in order to reduce morbidity, aid recovery, and avoid the long-term complications of pituitary failure.

Efficacy of rehabilitation for functional skills more than 10 years after extremely severe brain injury

PURPOSE

To determine whether gains in personal independence can be achieved in individuals 10 or more years after very severe acquired brain injury.

METHOD

Four individuals in a continuing (slow stream) rehabilitation centre were assessed by an occupational therapist (OT) and programmes were designed to help the individual enhance personal independence. Support staff were trained to implement these programmes under the guidance of the OT. Methods described by Giles, Ridley, Dill, and Frye (1997) were used. Pre- and post-training measures were taken as well as follow up measures to assess the durability of such changes.

RESULTS

The results demonstrate that it is possible to achieve clinically significant improvements in personal independence many years after very severe acquired brain injury.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest that personally and clinically significant goals can be achieved 10 or more years after brain injury and there should be continuing effort to improve the circumstances of individuals with acquired brain injury. Such gains can be achieved through consistent application of such programmes by support workers working under the supervision of an occupational therapist.

"The left hand does not know what the right hand is doing": rural and urban cultures of care for persons with traumatic brain injuries

This qualitative study examined systems of care for individuals with brain injury, from the providers' perspective, in two Colorado communities, one rural and one small urban, from 1998 to 2001. Using a guided interview format the researchers interviewed 53 medical, rehabilitation, community, and school service providers in the two sites. Of the 53 providers, ethnicity was reported as 100% Caucasian. Client ethnicity in the rural area was 87.9% Caucasian and 6.2% Hispanic, and the urban reported 67.3% Caucasian and 29% Hispanic. Both communities noted problems with care coordination, information about other available services, housing and transportation, and large underserved groups (persons with mild brain injury, non-English speakers, and persons without or with insufficient health insurance). The two communities noted strengths in having peer support networks and options for supported recreation. The rural community demonstrated strengths in dealing with trauma care but had few resources available for long-term rehabilitation and community-integrated services for its residents with brain injuries. The urban community uniquely had an array of alternative treatment approaches available.

Traumatic brain injury induced hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction: a paediatric perspective

In survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI), impairment in anterior pituitary hormone function may be an important cause of long-term morbidity. Histopathological evidence from post-mortem studies suggests that the hypothalamic-pituitary structures are vulnerable to damage following head injury. Pituitary dysfunction, present months or years after injury, is now well recognised in adults, however, little evidence is known about this potential complication in children and adolescents. This article reviews the available paediatric data, which shows that hypopituitarism may occur after both mild and severe TBI, with growth hormone and gonadotrophin deficiencies appearing to be most common abnormalities. Central precocious puberty has also been documented. There are, however, few published data within a population of children with TBI on the incidence or prevalence of hypopituitarism, nor on its natural history or response to hormone replacement, and prospective studies are needed. Given the critical role of anterior pituitary hormones in the regulation of growth, pubertal and neurocognitive development in childhood, early detection of hormone abnormalities following TBI is important. We propose that a multidisciplinary approach to follow-up and endocrine assessment is required for the long-term management and rehabilitation of children and adolescents who survive moderate to severe head injury.

Community neurorehabilitation: a synthesis of current evidence and future research directions

Over the past decade, community neurorehabilitation has emerged as a promising extension of neurological rehabilitation. The goal of community neurorehabilitation is to maximize functional ability and quality of life through multidimensional rehabilitation that occurs while the individual is living in a home versus acute or transitory care setting. Because of its multidisciplinary focus, many variations of community neurorehabilitation teams have been implemented. Critical gaps exist, however, in understanding of the influence of structural and procedural differences among programs, as well as patient level variables such as social support, on recovery. This paper examines the current evidence of the effectiveness of community neurorehabilitation through a review of the findings of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of four neurological conditions: stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson's disease. It focuses in particular on the data regarding physical therapy and occupational therapy, which are two of the primary components of community neurorehabilitation programs.

Advances in Postacute Rehabilitation After Childhood-Acquired Brain Injury

Despite traditional views, children do not necessarily recover well from brain injury. Residual functional impairments are commonly documented in physical, cognitive, educational, behavioral, and social domains and result in a significant, ongoing social and economic burden for the child's family and for the broader community. More recent acknowledgment of the serious, and often permanent, consequences of acquired brain injury in childhood has been paralleled by rapid advances in evidence-based, acute medical care and diagnostic technology. In contrast, child-based postacute rehabilitation and long-term interventions are less well developed. To date, child services have borrowed substantially from adult models, combining both direct therapies and interdisciplinary approaches. Despite their proliferation, and strong clinical support, such services are rarely the subject of rigorous evaluation and have given little acknowledgment to the important developmental factors that need to be considered when working with children. Using a developmental framework, this review aims to consider the nature of functional impairments that result from childhood traumatic brain injury, the recovery process postinjury, and the scope and role of child-based rehabilitation. In addition, the relatively scarce body of literature describing the evaluation of child rehabilitation models are reviewed with an emphasis on identifying approaches that provide evidence of enhanced function in the child's everyday life and, in particular, in the home and school contexts.

Neuropsychologie : son apport dans l’expertise des traumatisés crâniens adultes

Neuropsychology, which deals with the relationships between upper mental functions and brain structures is directly involved with psychiatric and psychological disorders and thus constitutes one of the major domains of cognitive sciences. The impairment of upper mental functions is evident after severe brain injuries causing significant motor deficits. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that even mild or moderate brain injuries can cause sequelae which are difficult to analyze and quantify clinically. These sequelae constitute an "invisible handicap" which may greatly interfere with the patient's professional, relational and social life. The neuropsychological evaluation must be systematic and complete and has to be carried out with a sufficient hindsight (two to three years after the trauma) using neuropsychological and behavioural deficiency evaluation scales. Psychometric tests are also necessary. The data obtained from this evaluation must be correctly interpreted and constitutes the main exhibit in the forensic examination of the brain injured patient.

Anterior pituitary dysfunction following traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the commonest cause of death and disability in young adults living in industrialized countries. Several recent studies have convincingly shown that anterior hypopituitarism is a common complication of head trauma with a prevalence of at least 25% among long-term survivors. This is a much higher frequency than previously thought and suggests that most cases of post-traumatic hypopituitarism (PTHP) remain undiagnosed and untreated. These findings raise important questions about the potential contribution of PTHP to the high physical and neuropsychiatric morbidity seen in this group of patients. In this review, we examine the published reports on the neuroendocrine abnormalities in TBI patients and highlight new data that give novel insights into the natural history of this disorder. We discuss the potential contribution of PTHP to recovery and rehabilitation after injury and the need for the identification and the appropriate and timely management of hormone deficiencies to optimize patient recovery from head trauma, improve quality of life and avoid the long-term adverse consequences of untreated hypopituitarism.