Second Impact Syndrome
Second impact syndrome
The Science Behind Second Impact Syndrome and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
(courtesy of BrainLine.org)
* Occurs within minutes of a concussion in an athlete still symptomatic from a previous brain injury suffered minutes, days, or weeks before
* Vascular engorgement leads to massive increase in intracranial pressure and brain herniation resulting in severe brain damage or death
* May occur with associated small subdural hematoma
* Except for boxing, most cases in literature occur in adolescents1
A second concussion suffered before a previous one has completely healed can lead to a catastrophic injury called second impact syndrome (SIS). SIS is characterized by rapid swelling of the brain after injury, requiring immediate, emergency surgery. Many who suffer SIS do not survive, and those that do are often permanently neurologically impaired. SIS is preventable.
The second injury can be caused by a seemingly minor blow, and although most cases involve adolescents, it is impossible to predict who will suffer SIS and who will not. Don't take a chance. Make sure your child's concussion has completely healed before they return to physical activity.
Second impact syndrome is very rare.
Prevention
Educated coaches, athletes, and parents are vital to the prevention of second impact syndrome. Keeping athletes from re-injuring their brains is of utmost importance. Make sure all athletes are completely symptom-free and have written medical authorization before allowing them to return to activity. Then follow the gradual return-to-play guidelines to ensure their symptoms do not return during physical exertion.Preston Plevretes (ESPN)
Source: (1) Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury) and the Team Physician: A Consensus Statement—2011 Update." Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise: 43.12 (2011): 2412-422. Print.
Dr. William Meehan, III Harvard University instructor; Director, Sports Concussion Clinic, Children's Hospital Boston, Mass.