Serious Personal Injury Lawyers Blog

Friday, May 16, 2008

Diagnostic Tools and Treatment for Brain Injury

There are several diagnostic and treatment modalities for supervising or treating traumatic brain injury:

-Computed tomographic (CT) scan tests use high-speed x-rays. CT images can show swelling, bleeding, or compression of brain tissue.
-Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests use magnetic energy to produce detailed pictures of brain tissue, bones, and other structures.
-Oxygen may be given by mask, nasal tubing, or ventilator (breathing machine). Individuals who are unconscious (comatose) may require a ventilator to breathe for them.
-Medicines to prevent or treat seizures, decrease brain swelling, control agitation, or control blood pressure may be given to patients with brain injury. The more severe the injury, the more medications and treatments are required.
-Hypothermia (lowered body temperature) has been shown in some medical studies to help improve recovery after a severe traumatic brain injury. This must be done as part of intensive care for a severe brain injury and must be carefully monitored. Further research is required to determine the effectiveness of this treatment.
-After the acute phase (first part) of care for the injury, persons with traumatic brain injury often receive intensive rehabilitation to maximize their functional level and improve their overall recovery including neuro-cognitive rehabilitation

Resources:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Brain Injury Association of America

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posted by Biera Campbell at 8:54 AM

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