The First Successful Implementation of Additional Substitution During CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™
The CONMEBOL medical commission is monitoring and studying cases of substitutions for suspected concussion and TBI during the competition. The first additional substitution for suspected concussion and TBI was implemented during match 21 of the tournament.
- The protocol has been effective in the first case of its use during a substitution.
- The main objective is to protect the health of the players and act immediately.
The CONMEBOL Medical Commission is monitoring and studying cases of substitutions for suspected concussion and TBI during the CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™, as well as their causes and symptoms, which is essential for the care of the players. It consists of a preliminary on-field evaluation lasting 3 minutes for the subsequent decision by the team doctor on whether the player should return to the field or be referred for appropriate examinations.
The protocol was effective in the first case of substitution, where a different-colored card (pink) was used to make the substitution for suspected concussion in the Uruguay-United States match (the 21st match of the tournament) at 26 minutes into the first half. Maximiliano Araújo suffered a head injury and was replaced by Cristian Olivera.
Additionally, there is a local medical coordinator and a CONMEBOL field medical officer who are responsible for supporting the team doctors in the correct application of the necessary medical protocols and conducting proper follow-up with standardized evaluation tools to determine the process and care to follow.
This implementation in the competition aims to primarily protect the health of the players and act immediately in cases of suspected concussion.
