Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are significant health concerns that affect millions of people worldwide. While various factors can cause TBIs, sports-related head injuries have gained particular attention in recent years. The effects of a TBI can be long-lasting and devastating. Therefore, it is essential to understand the different types of TBIs, their symptoms, and how to prevent them.

Concussion Protocol

Concussion protocols have been established for athletes to minimize the risk of developing a TBI. This includes immediate removal from play, followed by an evaluation to determine the extent of the injury. Athletes should not return to play until they have fully recovered.

Cranial Anatomy

The brain is surrounded by three layers of membranes: the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater. The dura mater is the outermost layer and provides a tough barrier that protects the brain. The arachnoid layer is a web-like structure that helps cushion the brain, and the pia mater is the innermost layer that covers the brain’s surface.

Coup-Contrecoup Injuries

A coup injury occurs when the brain collides with the skull’s interior surface, causing damage at the point of impact. A contrecoup injury occurs when the brain collides with the opposite interior surface of the skull, causing damage away from the point of impact.

Focal Injuries

Focal injuries occur when blunt trauma to a specific area of the brain leads to capillary bleeding and brain tissue damage. Cerebral contusions are a type of focal injury that affects a specific area of the brain, leading to neuro deficits such as confusion and personality changes.

Intracranial Hemorrhage

Intracranial hemorrhage is the bleeding that occurs inside the skull, and it can be classified into three types: epidural hematoma, subdural hematoma, and intracerebral hemorrhage. These types of hemorrhage can cause increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and result in neuro deficits.

Diffuse Injuries

Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) occurs when the brain experiences shearing and tearing forces, leading to axon damage. Mild DAI is known as a concussion, and symptoms include confusion, disorientation, and even amnesia. If you experience these symptoms, you should avoid playing sports until all symptoms have disappeared, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS). Repeated sub-concussive hits can lead to the development of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Moderate and severe DAI can result in unconsciousness for a prolonged period.

Intracranial Perfusion and ICP

Intracranial pressure (ICP) is the pressure inside the skull, and cranial volume is fixed. Any increase in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or brain tissue can lead to increased ICP and chokes out perfusion, leading to structural displacement. This can cause Cushing’s triad, which includes increased blood pressure, slowing pulse, and erratic breathing.

Signs and Symptoms of Brain Injury

The signs and symptoms of a TBI vary depending on the type and extent of the injury. These can include altered mental status (AMS), behavioral changes, amnesia, Cushing’s triad, vomiting, body temperature changes, pupillary changes, and decorticate and decerebrate posturing.

Neck, Spine, and Face Considerations

Stabilizing the spine, head, and airway are essential considerations in the management of TBI. Proper immobilization can prevent further damage and ensure that the patient’s airway remains open.

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