Vasospasm in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

Measuring Vasospasm, Biomarkers, and Neurocognitive Outcomes in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

The purpose of this study is to assess for vasospasm using Transcranial Doppler (TCD) and brain injury biomarkers, and evaluate neurocognitive outcome data in pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients who have experienced a mild to severe head injury.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. admission to Duke University Children's Hospital;
2. age 5 days to 15 years;
3. a diagnosis of a TBI with a GCS 3-15;
4. capable of adequate TCD ultrasound examination;
5. and presence of intravenous or arterial access (blood) and/or an EVD for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and/or Foley catheter/ability to void unassisted (urine) biomarker collection unless they are excluded based on the exclusion criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

• the presence of previously diagnosed significant neurodevelopmental delay,
• a diagnosis of non-traumatic intracranial hemorrhage and
• parents/legal guardians who do not speak or understand English.