Brain Injury / Traumatic Brain Injury / Head Injury

Brain injury is a broad term used to describe any injury to the brain which occurs when a sudden, external, physical assault damages the brain, and is a common cause of death and disability.  The damage can be focal (confined to one area of the brain) or diffuse (occurs in more than one area of the brain). The severity of a brain injury can range from a mild concussion to a severe injury that results in coma or even death. Common symptoms of brain injury include memory and concentration problems, speech problems and physical signs such as difficulty walking or with coordination and strength.    

Brain injury may occur in one of two ways:

1. Closed Brain Injury.  Closed brain injuries occur when there is a non-penetrating injury to the brain with no break in the skull. A closed brain injury is caused by a rapid forward or backward movement and shaking of the brain inside the bony skull that results in bruising and tearing of brain tissue and blood vessels. Closed brain injuries are usually caused by car accidents and falls. Shaking a baby can also result in this type of injury (called shaken baby syndrome).
2. Penetrating Brain Injury.  Penetrating, or open head injuries, occur when there is a break in the skull, such as when a bullet pierces the brain.

Diffuse axonal injury is the shearing (tearing) of the brain's long connecting nerve fibers (axons) that occurs when the brain is injured as it shifts and rotates inside the bony skull. DAI usually causes coma and injury to many different parts of the brain. The changes in the brain are often microscopic and may not show on computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.

Treatment for brain injury depends on the severity of the symptoms, and can include inpatient hospitalization in a rehabilitation hospital to outpatient physical and occupational therapy.

Paradigm's team of medical experts will help your nurse case manager  find the most appropriate treatment to get you on the road to recovery.  Your nurse case manager will meet with you and your family to make this happen.  When you have questions or concerns, please contact your nurse for assistance.

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Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only. The content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider if you have any questions regarding your medical condition. Please note that interactions on this site between you and a physician or nurse do not constitute or result in the formation of a physician/injured person and/or nurse/injured person relationship.