About this injury
What it is about
In a traumatic brain injury, there is a combined injury to the skull bone and the brain. Severe traumatic brain injury must be recognized and treated quickly. Mild forms require close monitoring.
Types
Trauma is divided into three degrees of severity. Mild traumatic brain injury manifests itself in possible unconsciousness for a maximum of 15 minutes and usually has no neurological consequences. In moderate trauma, unconsciousness may last up to an hour and late effects may occur. Severe traumatic brain injury is associated with unconsciousness lasting more than an hour and neurological sequelae are likely.
Symptoms and consequences
In the case of a skull contusion, headaches or dizziness are possible. With a concussion, possible symptoms include loss of consciousness for up to 15 minutes, memory lapses, nausea and vomiting. A brain contusion or brain bruise results in neurological symptoms such as unconsciousness, epileptic seizures, paralysis, and respiratory or circulatory problems. A skull or skull base fracture can be open or closed fractures.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
Rapid and thorough evaluation of a traumatic brain injury is essential. Older people have a higher risk of brain hemorrhage and more often require a more precise diagnosis by means of CT. At Männedorf Hospital, an experienced emergency team and the necessary diagnostic equipment are available around the clock.
Treatment
Patients with minor traumatic brain injury are monitored closely for at least 24 hours. This is necessary because a brain hemorrhage can occur within this time. In close cooperation with the University Hospital Zurich, affected patients with severe traumatic brain injury can be rapidly assessed neurosurgically and, if necessary, transferred for surgical treatment.