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Head Trauma — Emergency Evaluation

Rapid neurological assessment and computed tomography determine the management of intracranial injury.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Head Trauma — Emergency Evaluation?

Head trauma is mechanical injury of the scalp, skull and intracranial contents resulting from acceleration-deceleration or direct impact.

It is classified as mild (GCS 13–15), moderate (9–12) and severe (≤8); diffuse axonal damage and focal contusion may coexist.

Most common causes are road traffic accidents, falls, sports injuries and assault; rapid imaging is essential in the elderly and anticoagulant users.

Symptoms

Loss of consciousness, confusion and amnesia
Severe headache and persistent vomiting
Pupillary asymmetry or unresponsiveness to light
Hemiparesis and motor deficit
Cerebrospinal fluid otorrhoea or rhinorrhoea
Battle sign and raccoon eyes (basilar fracture)
Convulsion and behavioural change

Risk Factors

Age >65 years and antithrombotic use
Alcohol or drug intoxication
Previous brain trauma history
Bleeding disorders and haemophilia
Falls in epileptic patients
Failure to wear motorcycle/bicycle helmet
Domestic violence and child abuse

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Emergency presentation is mandatory in any loss of consciousness, recurrent vomiting and convulsion
  • Immediate CT is required for GCS <15, headache, post-traumatic amnesia
  • Neurosurgical consultation must be obtained for skull fracture or anticoagulant use
  • Even if discharged, 24-hour close observation by family is required

Treatment Methods

01
Airway-breathing-circulation (ABC) stabilisation
02
Cervical spine immobilisation (collar-board)
03
Non-contrast cranial CT and Glasgow Coma Scale follow-up
04
Mannitol or hypertonic saline for raised intracranial pressure
05
Levetiracetam prophylaxis for early post-traumatic seizure
06
Neurosurgical evacuation in surgical haematoma (epi/subdural)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.