Researchers receive funds to study traumatic brain injuries

Two Pennsylvania researchers were chosen by the National Institutes of Health to spearhead a five-year international study to evaluate treatments for pediatric traumatic brain injury. In the United States, almost a half-million children age 14 and younger are brought to emergency rooms for traumatic brain injuries. TBI is one of the leading causes of disability and death among children. The purpose of the $16.5 million study is to collect evidence in order to standardize clinical procedures and establish guidelines to improve the care of children suffering from TBI.

The study will examine 1,000 children from over 36 locations around the world. The subjects will be children with severe TBI and will be given the standard care offered by their hospital. The outcomes will be compared at six months and one year intervals following the initial injury.

The goal of the study is to identify the most effective treatments for children with severe head injuries. It’s anticipated that the study will more than double the data available regarding evidence-based treatment recommendations for children with TBI. The most common causes of TBI in children include falls, which account for half of TBIs for children age 14 and younger.

A child who suffers a traumatic brain injury may require long-term, specialized care. In some cases, a parent may have to leave work to care for an injured child. In addition to the emotional distress of a serious brain injury, families may suffer financial stress due to medical bills and missed work. A qualified Pennsylvania personal injury attorney might be able to pursue financial compensation for family members of a child with an accidental TBI.

Source:  WESA, “Local Researchers Land $16.5 Million To Study Traumatic Brain Injuries“, MICHAEL LYNCH, August 06, 2013