Posttraumatic seizure and epilepsy
Posttraumatic seizure (PTS) and posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE) are potential complications of traumatic brain injury (TBI). PTS is defined as a single seizure resulting from head trauma in exclusion of other…
Cranial nerve disorders
Twelve pairs of cranial nerves (CNs) emerge from the brain and radiate from its surface. CN injuries occur before, during, or after passing through the skull from compression secondary to…
Spasticity and contractures
Overview Definition Spasticity is a motor disorder characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in tonic stretch reflex (muscle tone) to passive muscle stretch. Pathophysiology • Motor dysfunction secondary to lesions proximal…
Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity
Autonomic pathophysiology The autonomic nervous system (ANS) unconsciously controls critical body functions and coordinates our responses to stimuli. The two main branches of the ANS are the sympathetic system, which…
Post-traumatic hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is “an active distention of the ventricular system of the brain related to inadequate passage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from its point of production within the ventricular system to…
Neuroendocrine, metabolic and hormonal conditions
Incidence and prevalence • Pituitary damage because of brain trauma was first recognized in 1918 and was initially thought to be relatively rare. It has only been with increased awareness…
Soft tissue and orthopedic conditions
This chapter identifies common soft tissue and musculoskeletal conditions that may be encountered in the treatment of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). An overview is provided on these topics:…
Genitourinary
Voiding disorders are common among patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Such voiding disorders are referred to as neurogenic bladder dysfunction . Urological disorders in TBI can range from 32%…
Gi and nutrition
Neurological injury can cause various gastrointestinal GI and nutritional complications. These problems can often affect recovery of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Appropriate recognition and practices regarding treatment and…
