Characteristics of pediatric patients with sports-related concussions: A single site retrospective review.

Abstract

Purpose: Sports-related concussion (SRC) cases have increased among children in the last decade. Differences in concussion symptoms, presentation, and follow-up care exist when comparing demographics. The aim of this study was to explore SRC within the pediatric population.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients ≤18 years old diagnosed with SRC at a New Orleans stand-alone children's hospital from January 2007 to December 2021 was performed. T-test and Fisher's exact test were used for relationship between outcomes and sports, demographics, setting, insurance, and follow-up care.

Results: Children who sustained SRC at practice were more likely to be male (p = 0.0311) and younger (p < 0.0001). Cheerleading was more likely to have injuries during practice (p < 0.0001). Medicaid/uninsured patients were more likely to be referred from the emergency department (ED) (p = 0.001), have longer length of follow-ups (p = 0.0489), and have more missed appointments (p = 0.0062). However, the total number of follow-ups between insurance types did not differ (p = 0.3084).

Conclusion: SRC incidence is situation and time dependent. Medicaid/uninsured patients are more likely to be evaluated at the ED, miss appointments, and have a longer length of follow-up to attain the same number of appointments. Exploring the nuances of SRC within this population will improve management and outcomes.