Sunil Kothari, MD
Check out articles by Sunil Kothari, MD
Rehabilitation refers to the process of helping the brain injury patient return to as much normal function as possible. Methods of rehabilitation vary greatly depending on the type and degree of injury.
When a patient suffers a traumatic brain injury (TBI), other medical issues often occur. While the brain is repairing itself, there may be complications relating to such basic functions as eating, drinking, and/or breathing.
Neurological Issues: Disorders of Conciousness
Many patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) are unconscious for a period of time, sometimes permanently. There are three different stages of impaired consciousness: coma, vegetative state, and a minimally conscious state.
Most traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients are admitted into the ICU. There are a number of potential medical responses, from medications or forced hyperventilation to an emergency craniectomy, which involves removing part of the skull.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Course of Recovery and Prognosis
Recovery from a brain injury occurs in phases: coma, post-traumatic amnesia, and a longer recovery phase. Prognosis can be predicted based on how long the patient spends in each stage.
Diagnosing traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a fairly clear process. What is not immediately known is the extent of the brain damage. A battery of tests are done to determine the area and extent of brain damage.
Most traumatic brain injuries are widespread, that is, not focused on one area. Sometimes secondary injuries can occur after the initial injury has occurred, typically in cases when breathing stopped or blood flow was lower.
Traumatic brain injury occurs when physical trauma causes damage to the brain. 1.4 million people sustain a TBI in the U.S. each year, most of which are mild and easily treated. More severe brain injuries may cause long-term disability and necessitate help with daily living.
A traumatic brain injury doesn't have to change who you are. Learn more about brain injury from diagnosis and prognosis to recovery and rehabilitation.
