Concussion & Second Impact Syndrome:
Why removal required
While SIS rare, it is real. If player knew risk of 2nd hit while symptomatic could end his career or even kill him, would he still re-enter?
Not just about long term (CTE)
We explore...
(Cont) #EPL #SafetyFirst




(Cont) #EPL #SafetyFirst
(2/5) Concussion:
Most common form of athletic head injury
Involves transient impairment of brain function due to external forces (rotational, acceleration, deceleration)
Most concussions don’t involve loss of consciousness
Still mainly clinical & diagnosis of exclusion




(3/5) Why Difficult Diagnosis:
Relies heavily on player to honestly report symptoms
Does not show up on CT/MRI
Wide variability in signs/symptoms & severity
Some symptoms disappear quickly; others are late onset
CANNOT adequately clear by 3 min protocol





(4/5) Second Impact Syndrome:
Defined as 2nd head injury before symptoms from 1st injury resolved
Preventable!
Rare but catastrophic injury
~ 50% fatal; ~ 100% neurologic disability
Rapid & diffuse brain swelling, herniation
Disproportionately affects young athletes






(5/5)
SIS is the real danger of allowing an athlete back onto field.
Are clubs doing enough to educate players on SIS & would any player risk returning if they truly understood?
Not just about the brain...slower reaction times can
risk for other significant injuries



