Concussion-mild Traumatic Brain Injury

We suggest using the terms “history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)” or “concussion” and to refrain from using the terms “brain damage” or “patients with mTBI” in communication with patients and the public. (Weak for)

We recommend evaluating individuals who present with symptoms or complaints potentially related to brain injury at initial presentation. (Strong for)

Excluding patients with indicators for immediate referral, for patients identified by post-deployment screening or who present to care with symptoms or complaints potentially related to brain injury, we suggest against using the following tests to establish the diagnosis of mTBI or direct the care of patients with a history of mTBI: (Weak against)

We recommend against performing comprehensive neuropsychological/ cognitive testing during the first 30 days following mTBI. For patients with symptoms persisting after 30 days. (Strong against)

For patients identified by post-deployment screening or who present to care with symptoms or complaints potentially related to brain injury, we recommend against using the following tests in routine diagnosis and care of patients with symptoms attributed to mTBI: (Strong against)

For patients with new symptoms that develop more than 30 days after mTBI, we suggest a focused diagnostic work-up specific to those symptoms only. (Weak for)