1138 - Academic Outcomes after a mTBI in the Pediatric Population

Objectives: Each year millions of children are diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), most of which
are mild TBI (mTBI). The effect of mTBI on academic performance is of significant
importance. We investigate the academic outcomes following mTBI in school-aged pediatric
subjects under the age of 18.

Design: This cross-sectional survey study queried the parents or caregivers
of these patients regarding change in letter grades and presence of academic accommodations
before and after a mTBI, including Complicated mTBI (mTBI with radiographic abnormality).

Results: We found a significant decline in letter grades following complicated mTBIs (C-mTBI)
(p< 0.001), while no such significant finding was seen in uncomplicated mTBIs. Degree of
recovery and length of recovery were also significantly associated with grade changes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: This study underscores the need for an improved framework of support to maximize academic
performance of children following mTBI, especially in those with a C-mTBI and still recovering
from their injury.