Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

Purpose / Hypothesis:

  • To investigate the prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) among Ukrainian amputee soldiers.
  • Participants would present with undiagnosed or subclinical signs of TBI.

Number of Subjects:

  • 41 male Ukrainian soldiers receiving amputee rehabilitation at Protez Foundation in Oakdale, MN.
  • IRB approval obtained through Concordia University - St. Paul

Materials and Methods:

  • Participants were screened for TBIs using the Military Acute Concussion Evaluation - Version 2 (MACE 2).
  • Participants were active Ukrainian military status and current recipient of prosthetic or rehabilitation services for war related injuries.

Results:

  • Results found a high prevalence of positive TBI MACE II findings (87.8%) among participants.
  • A two step logistic regression found significance in 3/4 subsections including; Concussion screen, p =

Clinical Relevance:

  • War-related TBIs can significantly affect independence and QOL long after injury.
  • Compat-injured individuals should be screened for signs of co-occurring TIB
  • Screening is critical for individuals receiving delayed medical services, where early TBI be missed.

Conclusions:

  • War-related TBIs remain under-recognized among Ukrainian combat veterans.
  • MACE 2 screening tool effectively identified TBI symptoms, even several months post-injury.
  • Earlier detection of TBI in the acute phase of care could better inform rehabilitation.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to Dr. Yakov Gradinar and the Protez Foundation, and to the Ukrainian war veterans for their essential participation.

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