RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The present study aims to report traumatic brain injury (TBI) among soccer players in the 2017 Brazilian Soccer Championship and discuss the protocols for concussion evaluation. MATERIALS & METHODS: This is an observational study utilizing video analysis of 380 matches. TBI was considered as any event in which one or more soccer player(s) had a head trauma. For potential concussion diagnosis, we analyzed players with one of the following signs: slowness to get up, disorientation, motor incoordination, loss of consciousness, head clutching and impact seizure. RESULTS: There were 374 TBIs in total. The average time for medical assessment was 1'35". 13 players had concussion with an average time of 3'19â³ for medical evaluation. Four players were replaced after having a concussion. CONCLUSION: There is a gap between concussion protocols and medical practices in Brazilian elite soccer. Further discussion about soccer replacement rules are imperative.