Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Impact on the Developing Brain

Laura S Blackwell; Robert Grell

doi:10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.06.019

Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Impact on the Developing Brain

Pediatr Neurol. 2023 Nov:148:215-222. doi: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.06.019. Epub 2023 Jul 1.

Authors

Laura S Blackwell¹, Robert Grell²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. Electronic address: Laura.blackwell@emory.edu.
² Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.

PMID: 37652817
DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.06.019

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health concern impacting millions of children and adolescents each year. Experiencing a brain injury during key critical periods of brain development can affect the normal formation of brain networks that are responsible for a range of complex neurocognitive outcomes. In addition, there are multiple pre- and postinjury factors that influence the trajectory of recovery and outcomes. In this review, we will focus on the current state of the literature within pediatric TBI; systematically review the available research on developmental aspects of TBI in children, focusing on the pathophysiology of the injury and its impact on the developing brain; and highlight knowledge gaps for further exploration.

Keywords: Developmental; Management; Neurocognitive; Neuroplasticity; Outcomes; Pediatric; Traumatic brain injury.