Michigan State explains allowing Alante Brown to play following injury

Rarely, if ever, do football players find themselves re-entering games after they’ve been carted off the field for an injury — especially a head or neck injury. But that’s what happened with Michigan State wideout Alante Brown.

After being carted off the field in the first half of the season opener and being stabilized on a board, the suite of tests administered showed no symptoms of a concussion, according to statement from Michigan State director of athletic medicine, Dr. Jeff Kovan. The statement came after Kovan had apparently reviewed the incident thoroughly with all involved.

On-field trainers and medical staff later held Brown out for the second half after seeing an isolated replay of the hit, something not immediately available to them on the sideline or field.

“At halftime, an additional detailed neurological and concussion examination remained negative. At that time, sports medicine staff were able to view the isolated television copy replay of the initial injury. Based on what was viewed, a decision was made to withhold Brown from further play despite continuing to have normal examination for precautionary reasons,” Kovan said. “The following morning, Brown displayed mild concussive symptoms on his repeat examinations. He’s currently doing well and progressing through concussion protocol.”

Kovan explained that based on the basic tests administered and response from Brown, plus negative X-rays and other diagnostic tests, he was allowed to re-enter the game in the first half.

The play where Brown was injured wasn’t readily seen by on-field medical staff and they didn’t have access to video until well into treating Brown. Given the testing and feedback they got, Brown wasn’t showing any concerning signs.

“Initial on-field evaluation of Brown’s injury included a head and neck screen, which prompted spine boarding and precautionary removal to the tunnel,” Kovan said. “Per all reports, none of the athletic training staff or physician medical staff had direct vision of the injury when it occurred. Evaluation in the tunnel, while still on the spine board, was negative relative to a neck injury, neurological injury or concussion. Subsequent x-rays were performed in the stadium and were also negative. Repeat examination (for neck injury, neurological injury and concussion) after x-ray continued to be negative.

“Based on interviews, an isolated replay of the injury was not part of initial sideline video review. Based on the negative clinical examination and x-ray, activity progression occurred on an exercise bike on the sideline and Brown remained asymptomatic and therefore was allowed to return to play.”

Kovan added that the medical and training staff for Michigan State will expand their use of video in assessing injuries.

“Moving forward, we will expand our use of video access as a tool to assist our healthcare providers in evaluating injuries and potential return to play,” Kovan said.