A central component of the NICoE’s mission is conducting research to understand the short- and long-term effects of TBI and the impact it has on patients and families. Through collaborations with federal, academic, and nonprofit organizations, the research team uses the most advanced technical and clinical resources to study the effects of TBI evaluation and treatment.
The NICoE research program is supported by the TBI Research Synergy Board, which was created to facilitate collaboration, maximize assets, and improve efficiency of TBI care and research efforts across the MHS TBI Unity of Effort. The Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences and the NICoE, as well as the National Institutes of Health, collaborate through the TBI Research Synergy Board.
The NICoE Research Program
Treatment and Rehabilitation
The NICoE model uses cutting-edge medical services to treat service members with mild TBI, with or without psychological health conditions, giving researchers insight into how new treatment methods can be used in TBI recovery.
Imaging and Medical Devices
NICoE researchers use state-of-the-art technology to provide non-invasive measurements of brain anatomy and function. These medical technologies are used to evaluate the neuroanatomy and treatment of patients. Examining patients again after treatment and rehabilitation can help pinpoint changes in the brain and show how clinical treatments have impacted patients in the short-term.
Longitudinal Assessment
Tracking patients’ and families' progress over time shows how they may continue to recover from TBI after leaving the NICoE. Researchers can then measure the long-term effectiveness of the NICoE’s treatment plans.