Brain Injury

All brain injuries are serious — just ask Brent Burns, defenseman for the Minnesota Wild. Last year, Burns was sidelined with an unexplained illness. He eventually learned that his dizziness, drowsiness and pounding headaches were symptoms of a concussion. That’s why Burns is partnering with Gillette to raise awareness of childhood brain injuries. We’ve created this page to help parents better understand, recognize and prevent brain injuries in children and teens. While you’re here, you can learn about the ImPACT brain injury measurement tool and register your child to take the baseline ImPACT test online. You can also find information on Gillette’s Minor Neurotrauma Clinic for treatment of mild traumatic brain injuries.

Brain injuries can result from trauma, infection, tumors or a lack of oxygen to the brain. Regardless of the cause, a brain injury can lead to physical, cognitive and behavioral changes. Many problems surface shortly after an injury occurs, and can be treated immediately. But because children are still developing physically, emotionally and mentally, other issues might not be evident for months or even years.

Gillette’s brain injury program is designed specifically for children and teens. We provide an intensive medical, nursing and rehabilitation program that includes acute care, therapy and family support. We accept children and teens with mild to severe brain injuries, including patients who depend on ventilators, patients with tracheostomies and children who require tube feeding.