THE PHYSICIAN SURVEY ON THE POST-CONCUSSION AND WHIPLASH SYNDROMES

被引:62
作者
EVANS, RW
EVANS, RI
SHARP, MJ
机构
[1] UNIV TEXAS,SCH MED,DEPT NEUROL,HOUSTON,TX 77025
[2] BAYLOR COLL MED,HOUSTON,TX 77030
来源
HEADACHE | 1994年 / 34卷 / 05期
关键词
MILD HEAD INJURY; POST-CONCUSSION SYNDROME; WHIPLASH INJURIES;
D O I
10.1111/j.1526-4610.1994.hed3405268.x
中图分类号
R74 [神经病学与精神病学];
学科分类号
摘要
Background: The post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and whiplash syndrome (WS) have been controversial topics among physicians for many decades. There is little information available on the opinions and practices of physicians. Methods: In June of 1992, we performed a national survey by mail of the four physician groups most commonly treating these problems. The number of respondents and response rates were as follows: family physicians, 118, 16%; neurologists, 100, 21%; neurosurgeons, 97, 23%; orthopedists, 82, 13%. The survey instrument contained items on demographics, definitions, causation, prognosis, medico-legal aspects, testing, and treatment. Results: Only a minority of respondents believe that PCS and WS are clearly defined syndromes. A substantial minority report that psychogenic and litigation factors are most responsible for the conditions. Most of the physicians believe that PCS and WS have a 3-6 month recovery time. A significant minority concur that symptoms of the two syndromes resolve when litigation is settled. Most of the physicians order tests to rule out pathology although a minority order tests to reassure patients or because of litigation concerns. Only a minority of respondents believe that effective treatments are available. Not surprisingly, a multitude of conventional and unconventional treatments are sometimes recommended. Conclusions: Many aspects of PCS and WS are controversial among treating physicians. This controversy can have a profound impact on the quality and cost of patient care. Ongoing research is required to discover more effective treatments for mild brain injury and chronic pain.
引用
收藏
页码:268 / 274
页数:7
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