Highlights
- •The King–Devick (K–D) test was used for routine assessment for possible concussion.
- •The K–D had a high baseline test–retest reliability (rs = 0.86; p < 0.0001).
- •Seven concussions were medically identified in six players with post-match K–D times greater than 3 s from baseline.
Abstract
Aim
To determine whether the King–Devick (K–D) test used as a sideline test in junior
rugby league players over 12 matches in a domestic competition season could identify
witnessed and incidentally identified episodes of concussion.
Methods
A prospective observational cohort study of a club level junior rugby league team
(n = 19) during the 2014 New Zealand competition season involved every player completing
two pre-competition season baseline trials of the K–D test. Players removed from match
participation, or who reported any signs or symptoms of concussion were assessed on
the sideline with the K–D test and referred for further medical assessment. Players
with a pre- to post-match K–D test difference >3 s were referred for physician evaluation.
Results
The baseline test–retest reliability of the K–D test was high (rs = 0.86; p < 0.0001). Seven concussions were medically identified in six players who recorded pre-
to post-match K–D test times greater than 3 s (mean change of 7.4 s). Post-season testing of players demonstrated improvement of K–D time scores consistent
with learning effects of using the K–D test (67.7 s vs. 62.2 s).
Discussion
Although no witnessed concussions occurred during rugby play, six players recorded
pre- to post-match changes with a mean delay of 4 s resulting in seven concussions being subsequently confirmed post-match by health
practitioners. All players were medically managed for a return to sports participation.
Conclusion
The K–D test was quickly and easily administered making it a practical sideline tool
as part of the continuum of concussion assessment tools for junior rugby league players.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 02, 2015
Accepted:
June 29,
2015
Received in revised form:
June 3,
2015
Received:
March 25,
2015
Identification
Copyright
© 2015 Elsevier B.V. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
