ACUTE CARE RESEARCH

SFIC researchers are conducting laboratory and clinical studies directed toward improving outcomes for acutely injured patients. These studies range from investigations of the molecular basis of traumatic brain injury to interventions designed to reduce posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in children who have been injured.

Clinically Relevant Model of
Traumatic Brain Injury

Brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability following trauma. Improvement in the outcome for these patients requires better methods for treating the initial injury as well as the cellular and metabolic changes that occur as the result of injury. Researchers are using laboratory models to study how the injured brain uses oxygen, glucose, and other cellular substances needed for normal activity. The ultimate goal is to devise therapies that will immediately correct the cellular and molecular imbalances that accompany traumatic brain injury and to prevent secondary cellular injuries.

Use of Tissue Oxygen Monitoring
in Critically Injured Trauma Patients

Prevention of tissue ischemia and anaerobic metabolism may translate into improved outcomes in trauma patients. Using techniques previously perfected in our laboratory, researchers are investigating the value of direct measurements of oxygen and cellular metabolism in the brain and muscle for detection of hypoperfusion and ischemia. These techniques are aimed at improving upon current endpoints clinicians use for resuscitation of trauma patients. This technology will also enable us to introduce and evaluate new therapies aimed a improving tissue oxygenation in the brain and other vital organs.

Biomechanics of Vertebral Fractures

How vertebral bone becomes more fragile over time is not well understood. It is hypothesized that a seemingly harmless, one-time over compression of the vertebrae can damage the microstructure of the bone. While vertebrae may look normal on x-ray, CT, and MRI scans, there may in fact be significant damage. Individuals with undiagnosed but nevertheless damaged bones are at risk of a more severe injury over time when performing activities that otherwise are thought of as "safe." The findings from this study may eventually lead to the development of new strategies to prevent age-related and workplace fractures of the spine.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
in Pediatric Trauma Patients

Exposure to traumatic events can produce significant impairment that may seriously affect a child's development and future functioning. Identification of childhood PTSD can be complicated. The purpose of this study is to improve our understanding of the incidence, antecedents, and the development of PTSD in injured children and to determine the efficacy methods aimed at reducing PTSD symptoms. With this information, they will then be prepared to develop standardized protocols for evaluating both children and their caregivers following a traumatic event.