Neural and Behavioral Sequelae of Blast-Related Traumatic Brain Injury
Abstract
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a common occurrence from roadside blasts of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In the proposed cross-sectional study, we aim to apply neurobehavioral testing and advanced MRI techniques [task-activated functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)] to gain a comprehensive understanding of the neural changes underlying blast-related MTBI. We will accomplish this goal by conducting advanced neuroimaging (task-activated fMRI and DTI fiber tracking) and neurobehavioral testing (computerized assessment and standard neuropsychological testing) on 60 chronic trauma patients: 15 military MTBI patients who have experienced blast injuries, 15 civilian MTBI patients with mechanical closed head injuries, 15 military and 15 civilian patients with orthopedic injuries. Year one of the project has been devoted to the development of the necessary infrastructure for the execution of this complex multisite study. A number of development tasks have been undertaken, including hiring and training a new coordinator in Houston, developing uniform procedures for analysis of image data in Cleveland and Houston, and further developing the avenues for recruitment of subjects. We have recruited 32 subjects and acquired imaging and cognitive data from 25 of these subjects. We are satisfied that the accrual of data is of high reliability and integrity. Over the next year, we will continue recruitment, acquisition of data, and data analysis across the two study sites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA560268
Entities
People
- Stephen M Rao