Medical Treatment for a Moderate to Severe TBI
Moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause damage that can never be fully repaired. However, there are many treatment options1 available that can lessen the complications of TBIs and rehabilitate a brain injury victim.
Emergency Care is Usually Needed
Moderate to severe TBIs typically require immediate emergency care. In the emergency room, doctors are concerned with the TBI victim having enough oxygen and blood flow to the brain. Blood pressure will also be monitored, as will intracranial pressure.2 The main goal in the emergency room is preventing further injury to the neck or head and to prevent any excessive pressure or fluid inside the skull.
Surgical Options for TBI Victims
Treatment for some brain injuries can include surgery if needed. Examples of surgeries after a TBI is sustained are:
- Removal of blood clots (also called hematomas). If a patient is bleeding in the brain, blood clots may form, which puts pressure on the brain and may harm brain tissue.
- Skull fracture surgery may be required to mend severe skull fractures or to take out pieces of the skull.
- Doctors may also operate on the head to lessen the pressure in the brain by draining fluid or by making a window in the skull to allow more room for the swelling brain tissue, and an intracranial pressure monitor may be implanted.
Types of Medications That May Be Administered to TBI Victims
Several types of prescriptions may help lessen symptoms and complications, including:
- Anti-seizure drugs are often prescribed for people who have had a moderate to severe TBIs because this group is at a higher risk of having seizures during the first week following the accident. It is important to prevent seizures as seizures can cause additional brain damage.
- Coma-inducing drugs are given to patients with especially severe TBIs. These drugs are helpful because a brain needs less oxygen to function when the body is in a coma and can heal faster.
- Diuretics may also be used to lessen the amount of fluid in tissue and relieve pressure in the brain.
Rehabilitation Is Often a Key Portion of Recovery
- An occupational therapist will assist the victim in learning skills needed to perform everyday activities such as cooking or hygiene tasks.
- A physical therapist will help the victim with mobility issues such as balance and walking.
- A speech pathologist will help the victim with communication skills and pronunciation issues.
There are many other types of healthcare professionals who will be able to assist a TBI victim as they recover and will be able to help guide the family and help explain to the family limitations in ability.
Contact a Tampa Bay Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney to Determine Your Options
Treating a moderate to severe TBI can be costly and take years. These treatments are needed in order for you to return to the state and level of your health before your accident. Personal injury law also states that you should not have to pay for these treatments if your injury was caused by someone else.
Beyond having your medical bills paid, you should also be compensated for the pain and suffering you experience. Typically, the higher your medical expenses, the more money will be awarded in pain and suffering. A qualified personal injury attorney will be able to examine your case and tell you what steps you need to take and how much your case could be worth. Contact Dolman Law Group at 727-451-6900 today for a free initial consultation.
Dolman Law Group
800 North Belcher Road
Clearwater, FL 33765
727-451-6900
https://www.dolmanlaw.com/legal-services/brain-injury-attorneys/
