Can Eye Movements Predict Persistent Problems in Paediatric Mild TBI?
Chief Investigator: Dr Larry Abel, A/ Professor Jacinta Douglas Lead Organisation: University of Melbourne VNI Funding: $332,828 Project Start Date: 1 November 2008 Project Summary: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is very common amongst children. 85% of these are mild. Mild TBI is not without consequences, including sensory problems and impaired attention. This is particularly significant because it goes against a widespread assumption that children’s brains are more “plastic” and thus better able to withstand even significant trauma. Some consequences may only become evident when children fail to meet normal milestones. Australia’s outdoors, sport-oriented culture means the potential for a child to suffer some degree of long-term impairment from a common recreational activity is considerable. If we could detect early which children were most at risk, we could intervene sooner, directing rehabilitation resources only to those who would benefit. Recent adult studies have shown a battery of
