Objective Scans to Prove Concussion

Believe it or not, you can have a concussion without having abnormal MRI and CT scan results. For this reason, concussions can be difficult to prove. The good news is, there is now a concussion scan that reveals objective results.

This article covers several state-of-the-art scans that show problems within the brain linked to a concussion.

Need Help Getting a Concussion Scan? 

Call 303-688-0944, or schedule your meeting online when you click here.

Doctor’s Opinion v. Objective Concussion Scan

Most doctors will perform simple neurological testing to document any deficits you may be experiencing that could indicate you suffered a concussion.

Standard Testing

Traditional neurological testing involves:

• • eye tracking
  • strength
  • motor skills
  • balance
  • stability
  • cognition

While these are useful tests, they also involve a doctor’s opinion. There is a concussion scan out there, however, that provide more objective results.

Testing Your Eyes & Ears

Videonystagmography 

Videonystagmography, or VNG, is a computerized test for your eyes and ears.

This test is designed to document your ability to follow objects with your eyes. It also records how well your eyes respond to stimuli from your vestibular system – or your inner ear.

You may be wondering what an eye test involving your inner ear has to do with head trauma, like a concussion.

Well, your inner ear gives your brain information about motion, spatial orientation, balance, and stability, which can be affected by concussion.

Testing Your Brain Function

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography, SPECT scan, reviews your brain’s function.

This scan, which measures blood flow, can show exactly which areas of the brain are underactive, overactive, and healthy.

An MRI or CT scan, while exceptional technology, just show your brain’s structural anatomy. These two scans are the gold standard to show severe brain injury, such as a massive bleed.

Because the SPECT scan looks at your brain’s functioning, it can back up some of the concussion symptoms you may be having. This is useful in finding the right treatment plan.

Testing Your Brain’s Structure

Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Diffusion Tensor Imaging, or DTI scan, also shows your brain’s function. How? The scan provides a picture of your brain’s microstructure.

Understanding DTI Scans

Your brain contains long connective fibers called axons. These axons get ripped during a traumatic head injury. For instance, if you’re in a car accident and your head whips back and forth or from side to side, your brain’s axon’s will be torn.

A DTI scan can show this damage. The scan may show a normal flow of axons, and then all of a sudden the scan shows an empty space, where the axons were ripped – indicating concussion.

Connect with a Personal Injury Attorney

If you believe you sustained a concussion in a car wreck or a fall, it’s important to get the right testing sooner rather than later. There’s a time limit on how long you can recover money for your injuries.

Set up a case assessment when you call 303-688-0944.