Sports related concussion

Abstract

Sports-related concussion (SRC) is a severe type of sports injury that is attracting attention worldwide. The most recent SRC definition has been expressed as a complex and pathophysiological process of the brain caused by biomechanical forces. It includes the impairment of axonal networks leading to depolarization and tthe brain's increased demand for glucose and oxygen. The vasospasm that may occur after the concussion or the decrease in cerebral blood flow pushes the process into a vicious circle. Due to the fragility created by this situation, i.e. an energy crisis, resting following the first impact is very important. As a result of the SRC studies, some restrictions were imposed regarding the time needed for safe return to sports. The initial assessment for SRC should be performed on the sports field as soon as possible. Standard emergency management principles (airway, breathing, circulation) should be followed in the first assessment. Based on the Glasgow Coma Scale, which is the most widely used up-to-date scale, a new scale named Sports-Related Concussion Assessment Tool was developed. The follow-up and treatment of the SRC victims can be conducted according to the severity of the symptoms defined as “urgent” and “requiring follow-up”.

Keywords

• concussion
• craniocerebral trauma
• post-concussion symptoms
• return to sport