Epidemiology and clinical outcomes in a multicentre regional cohort of patients with severe acquired brain injury

Purpose: To evaluate epidemiological and clinical data on patients with severe acquired brain injury (sABI) admitted to rehabilitation units in the first 6 years since the inception of a regional register (2005-2010) in the Emilia-Romagna region (Italy). Method: Retrospective multicentre study of a regional cohort using data from an online regional register (Gravi Cerebrolesioni Emilia-Romagna - GRACER). The study included 318 patients who suffered sABI (defined by Glasgow Coma Scale score <= 8 recorded in the initial 24 h following injury), who were admitted to and subsequently discharged from rehabilitation units. Physical and cognitive functions were evaluated at admission and discharge. Other data recorded included aetiology, presence of secondary conditions and need for specific medical support. Results: Three-quarters of patients displayed improvements in physical and/or cognitive function at discharge from rehabilitation units, with 71.4% of patients returning home. Better outcomes at discharge were associated in particular with younger age, traumatic brain injury (versus non-traumatic), or absence of tracheostomy at admission. Conclusion: The GRACER register is a useful tool for the assessment of epidemiological and clinical information on sABI patients. In light of the positive impact on patient outcomes, rehabilitation in specialised units is highly encouraged and should occur as soon as possible.