Examining concussions in adult male, senior-grade semi-elite rugby league in Australia: A retrospective observational video review case series.

BACKGROUND

The risk of concussion at the elite level of rugby league has been extensively evaluated. However, there has been very little concussion research conducted at the semi-elite level.

PURPOSE: To examine cases of medically diagnosed concussion from a single season of adult men's semi-elite rugby league.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the 2019 Queensland Cup season head injury assessment surveillance program was completed. All Head Injury Assessment (HIA) cases, including cases of medically diagnosed concussion were retrospectively video reviewed and game play characteristic variables along with video signs of concussion were coded. This data was combined with the return to play data to form the research database.

RESULTS

There were 132 players removed for HIAs in 170 games. There were 36 players medically diagnosed with concussions, which equates to an incidence rate was 6.11 concussions per 1000 player match hours, or one concussion every 4.7 matches. All concussions occurred in a tackle event, where the player was struck in the head/face. Possible balance disturbance was the most commonly observed video sign (97.2 ​%; 35/36), with slow to stand also commonly observed in concussed players (91.7 ​%; 33/36). Most concussed players (63.9 ​%; 23/36) did not miss a game following the concussion.

CONCLUSION

This is one of the first studies to review video footage of concussions in sub-elite rugby league. These findings build on the growing body of video analysis research in rugby league and suggest that the retrospective review of the video of incidents may offer insights into modifiable risk factors that may help reduce concussion in rugby league.