An overview of traumatic brain injury in adults

Abstract

The epidemiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in high-income countries is changing, with falls in older adults as one of the leading causes. Disability after TBI results largely from cognitive, emotional and behavioural problems, as well as physical impairments. The consequences are long term and far-reaching, affecting not only the survivor and carers, but also incurring major socioeconomic costs to society. TBI is a heterogeneous disease, which has different causes, severity and encompasses a spectrum of pathological features. In part one of this two-part series, the author provides an overview of the different pathophysiological features of TBI. Part two will focus on management of adult patients with a severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8) who require critical care, based on current evidence.