Types of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Key TBI Statistics
- 75% mild (concussions)
- 90% closed injuries
- 50% higher mortality in penetrating TBI
Primary Classifications
1. Closed TBI
Non-penetrating injury (most common)
- Blunt force trauma
- Intact skull
- Includes concussions
3. Diffuse Axonal Injury
White matter shearing
- Car accidents
- Coma risk
- Microscopic damage
Severity Levels (Glasgow Coma Scale)
Classification | GCS Score | Characteristics | Recovery Timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Mild TBI | 13-15 | Brief consciousness loss | Weeks to months |
Moderate TBI | 9-12 | Neurological deficits | 6-12 months |
Severe TBI | 3-8 | Extended unconsciousness | Years/lifelong |
Special TBI Categories
Secondary TBI
Progressive damage from:
- Brain edema
- Hypoxia
- Intracranial pressure
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Degenerative condition:
- Repeated trauma
- Athletes at risk
- Late-onset symptoms
Diagnostic Process
- Neurological examination
- CT/MRI imaging
- Cognitive testing
- Glasgow Coma Scale assessment
Prevention Strategies
- Closed TBI: Helmets & seatbelts
- Penetrating TBI: Workplace safety
- CTE: Limit head impacts