LUCID - v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Loughborough University Concussion IDentification
IRAS ID
348866
Contact name
Thomas Wilcockson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Loughborough University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 19 days
Research summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether a type of eye movement called smooth pursuit can be used as a potential indicator of concussion severity and recovery. Previous research has suggested that concussion causes abnormalities in smooth pursuit eye movements. Smooth pursuits have been found to be immediately affected following a concussion, with the severity of the concussion being associated with smooth pursuit performance. Additionally, smooth pursuit performance can be used to monitor a patient as they recover from concussion with smooth pursuit able to indicate when a patient has fully recovered.
Our research aims to identify a new focus for objective monitoring and evaluation in concussion management. If smooth pursuit eye movements are found to be reliable indicators of concussion severity and recovery, simple tasks could be integrated into smartphones or other wearable devices. This would provide a valuable and affordable means for clinicians to track patient progress and make informed decisions about treatment and rehabilitation.
Our research would compare smooth pursuit performance to other concussion tests currently used within the NHS. We can then establish whether smooth pursuits are an effective marker capable for informing diagnosis.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0531
Date of REC Opinion
28 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion