The Pathophysiology of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A Review

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an insult to the brain from an external mechanical force. It may cause permanent or temporary impairment of cognitive, physical, and/or psychological functions. It may also be associated with an altered or diminished state of consciousness. It accounts for approximately 40% of all deaths from acute injuries. The economic burden due to loss of earning capacity is tremendous. It affects all age groups, but the main victims are the adults in the prime of their life. The major cause of TBI is road traffic accidents. The primary injury, sustained at the time of the accident, cannot be altered. The main aim of TBI management is to prevent or limit the secondary brain injury which develops after Primary injury. The proper recognition of trauma and secondary pathology goes a long way to limit mortality and morbidity. The skull fractures, intracranial bleeds can be surgically treated. Early recognition of cerebral edema, raised intracranial tension, hydrocephalus and brain herniation is the essential part of neurosurgical management.