Surgical management of patients with severe head injuries

Assessment of the patient who is neurologically impaired

Care of the patient with emergent neurologic trauma incorporates assessment, diagnosis, and treatment by a multidisciplinary team. Establishing intravenous access and determining fluid requirements necessitates an advanced knowledge of infusion support and of fluid and electrolyte balance. When these factors are addressed in a systematic, continuous manner throughout all phases of the trauma care continuum, the patient with emergent neurologic trauma has the best opportunity for restoration of optimal neurologic function.

Acute care management of severe traumatic brain injuries

Preservation or restoration of optimal neurologic function following traumatic brain injury (TBI) requires timely and aggressive therapeutic interventions. Effective diagnostic tools, together with an armamentarium of treatment modalities, have augmented the treatment strategies utilized today. In addition, the Guidelinesfor the Management of Severe Head Injury have established a standardized approach for the TBI patient. This article will provide current information regarding the resuscitation priorities, appropriate interventions, and pharmacological agents used in the treatment required by the complex nature of TBI. Also, a review of the occurrences associated with TBI will be discussed.