The North Texas Concussion Registry (ConTex). Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cullum, C. Munro; Bunt, Stephen; Hicks, Cason; Didehbani, Nyaz; Miller, Shane; Vargas, Bert; Sabo, Tonia; Bell, Kathleen; Batjer, H Hunt
• Is Part Of: BMJ open. Volume 10:Issue 1(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: sports medicine -- neurology -- psychiatry -- rehabilitation medicine -- neurosurgery -- statistics & research methods; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; 610.72
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032345
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-6055

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The North Texas Concussion Registry (ConTex) was established in 2015 as a multi-institutional collaboration intended to study risk factors, recovery patterns and clinical outcomes associated with concussion across the lifespan, with a particular emphasis on sport-related concussion. Participants: Prospective enrolment of individuals who sustained a concussion within the past 6 months who were seen at one of four North Texas ConTex concussion clinics which employ common diagnostic criteria and assessment metrics to evaluate effects of a concussion as well as longitudinal tracking of recovery. Findings to date: The ConTex database and multidisciplinary oversight team has been established, and over 1700 participants aged 5–88 years have been enrolled. A majority of concussions were sport-related (60%), with a mean age of 17.5 years and similar numbers of males and females. Three-month follow-up compliance has been excellent (86%), with a majority of subjects reporting good recovery by that time. ConTex has provided a rich data source for multiple research projects focused on concussion characteristics, risk factors and outcomes, and led to the development of a statewide youth concussion registry. Future plans: ConTex data are being analysed to add to the body of knowledge regarding concussion mechanisms, factors related to recovery and improving outcomes for concussion patients. ConTex will serve as a platform for future treatment studies and may serve as a model for other concussion surveillance programmes.