Brain Injury

Introduction

Trauma is a leading cause of death in the adult population. Approximately one half of all adults who have died from a trauma injury sustained a head injury. Of those 50%, approximately half are admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of a head injury. Head injuries are associated with approximately 50% of all motor vehicle crashes. Risk-taking behaviors can also lead to accidents that cause head injuries and include: alcohol intake, mind-altering drugs, improper use or non-use of safety equipment in motor vehicles, motorcycles (helmets), bicycles (helmets), and participation in contact sports. If a detailed history is unavailable and the patient is unconscious, then the loss of consciousness may have preceded and/or caused the injury.Anatomy , Physiology The components of the head and brain affected by head injuries include the scalp, skull, facial bones, brain tissue, meninges, blood brain barrier, intravascular component (blood in blood vessels), and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). Scalp Injuries to the scalp are usuall...