Guidelines recommend assessment of visio-vestibular symptoms and patient education by physicians because referral for interventions may mitigate the risk for adverse outcomes.^18,20-23 Findings from a VVE may also assist customizing return-to-activity guidance to a patient’s symptoms. For example, abnormal findings during an exam of horizontal saccades may result in challenges with reading, whereas abnormal findings on vertical saccades may mean that a child may have difficulty reviewing information on a whiteboard and taking notes. Simple accommodations, such as getting additional time to read and access to take-home notes, may make all the difference for children returning to school with a concussion.

For more information, including a step-by-step detailed instruction on how to perform each VVE element, check out CHOP’s Acute Head Trauma Pathway and the Minds Matter website.

The Brain Injury Association of America also offers training for health professionals on brain injury care through professional certifications, exceptional education, and innovative research initiatives. Learn more.

Ms. Sarmiento is Director of Outreach Programs at the Brain Injury Association of America.

Dr. Corwin is an attending physician and director of clinical and translational research in the Division of Emergency Medicine, and associate director and Emergency Department lead of the Minds Matter Concussion Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Dr. Master is a pediatrician and sports medicine specialist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia with expertise in primary care sports medicine and brain injury medicine.

References

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