Prediction of Neurobehavioral Outcome 1–5 Years Post Pediatric Traumatic Head Injury

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Abstract
To examine the neurobehavioral status of children with traumatic head injury (THI) and to identify variables that predict outcome. Retrospective chart review, with follow-up 1–5 years after injury. Outcome predictor variables were identified through stepwise regression analysis. Level one trauma center and pediatric rehabilitation program. 71 Children with THI, selected from a four-year series of consecutive admissions. Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales—Survey Edition. Significant predictors of better neurobehavioral status at follow-up included absence of a premorbid learning problem (p < .01), older age at injury (p < .01), and normal pupillary response (p < .001) and higher cerebral perfusion pressure (p < .0001) during critical care management. Neurobehavioral outcome after THI is influenced by premorbid psychosocial variables as well as by critical care management.