Norman Regional Health System Pioneers New Concussion Blood Test, First in Oklahoma

A new era in concussion diagnosis has arrived in Oklahoma, thanks to a pioneering move by Norman Regional Health System. Becoming the first facility in the state to offer a groundbreaking, FDA-approved blood test for concussions, Norman Regional is setting a new standard for assessing mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), providing clinicians with a vital, objective tool.

For too long, diagnosing concussions has relied heavily on subjective symptoms and patient self-reporting, often leading to uncertainty and delayed care.

This innovative blood test, however, changes the game. It specifically measures two crucial biomarkers – Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) and Ubiquitin Carboxy-terminal Hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) – in the blood, which are released into the bloodstream after a head injury. Elevated levels of these proteins can indicate the presence of a brain injury, offering clear, data-driven insights.

Dr.

Karl Hoffman, Medical Director for Emergency Medicine at Norman Regional Health System, highlighted the profound impact of this advancement. "Being able to offer this new blood test is a game-changer for our patients and emergency staff," he stated. "It provides us with an objective measure to aid in diagnosing concussions, helping us make more informed decisions about patient care, especially within the critical 12-hour window following an injury."

The test is primarily designed for adults aged 18 and older who have sustained a head injury and are being evaluated for mTBI.

One of its most significant benefits is its potential to reduce the reliance on CT scans. While CT scans are excellent for detecting major brain hemorrhages or fractures, they expose patients to radiation and are not always effective at identifying the subtle cellular damage indicative of a concussion.

By using this blood test, healthcare providers can more accurately determine which patients truly need a CT scan, thereby minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure and healthcare costs.

This development is particularly impactful in a state like Oklahoma, where sports are a deeply ingrained part of the culture and accidental head injuries are unfortunately common.

From high school athletes to individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents or falls, the need for rapid, accurate concussion assessment is paramount. Early and precise diagnosis is crucial for preventing further injury and ensuring appropriate recovery protocols are initiated.

Norman Regional Health System's commitment to adopting cutting-edge medical technologies underscores its dedication to providing the highest quality of care.

This new blood test represents a significant leap forward, offering not just a diagnostic tool, but also peace of mind for patients and their families, ensuring that head injuries are assessed with the utmost precision and expertise available today.