Journal of Trauma & Treatment

General anaesthesia has long been known to carry the risk of complications, including awareness during or consciousness during anaesthesia. According to estimates, 30,000 patients in the US experience awareness during anaesthesia each year. The invention of ether by Morton in 1846 signalled the beginning of a new age in surgery when patients might be spared the anxiety of having surgery while awake. The first instance of awareness during general anaesthesia was documented by Morton the same year when his etherized patient felt intraoperative pain. Prior to the use of curare, awareness could be easily determined since the patient would react physically to unpleasant surgical stimuli.

A major concern is how to treat dizziness and balance problems after a concussion. This study sought to determine whether vestibular rehabilitation could assist people with concussions feel less lightheaded and to enhance their gait and balance. Retrospective record analysis was done on 114 patients who had been referred for vestibular therapy after suffering a concussion: 67 children under the age of 18 (mean age, 16; range, 8–18); and 47 adults above the age of 18 (mean age, 41; range, 19–73). During the initial evaluation and discharge, outcome measurements of selfreport (such as dizziness severity, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, and Dizziness Handicap Inventory), as well as gait and balance performance (such as Dynamic Gait Index, gait speed, and the Sensory Organization Scale), were noted.