The abrupt force so common during motor vehicle accidents creates ideal conditions for traumatic brain injuries, also known as TBIs, which are caused by a hard blow or jolt to the head. While many TBIs are mild in nature and heal with time and plenty of rest, others—such as moderate and severe TBIs—cause an array of uncomfortable, debilitating, and even life-threatening symptoms and complications that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Fortunately for a patient who's sustained a TBI, once her doctor gets her past the immediate emergency stage—which includes stabilizing vital signs, preventing additional injuries to the head or neck, and minimizing secondary symptoms—there are a number of excellent, although often expensive, treatment options available.
Medications and Surgical Treatments
Immediately after a TBI, patients may be given medications to prevent—or limit—secondary brain damage, such as diuretics, which are used to reduce pressure in the brain. Anti-seizure drugs are also a common treatment for TBI patients, who may stay on the medication for a week or longer. In the most severe cases, TBI patients may be given coma-inducing drugs while doctors wait for swelling to subside.
Physicians may also recommend surgical treatments, such as the removal of blood clots in or around the brain; or the repair of skull fractures sustained in the accident. Alternatively, they may open a window in the skull to create more room for swollen brain tissue or drain any cerebral spinal fluid collecting at the site of the injury.
Accident victims with severe TBIs may need a team of brain injury specialists to help them relearn basic skills and overcome injury-related impairments. This team may include:
- Physical therapists: who assist people with mobility issues such as balance and movement
- Occupational therapists: who help with relearning or improving skills needed to perform day-to-day activities
- Speech and language pathologists: who enable patients to regain communication skills
- Rehabilitation nurse/TBI nurse specialists: who provide rehabilitative care, help coordinate care, and offer information on the TBI recovery process
TBI patients may also work with social workers or case managers, recreational therapists, vocational counselors, and neuropsychologists.
Are You Living With a TBI?
The costs of living with a severe TBI can be astronomical. If you or someone you love sustained a TBI in an accident caused by another person's negligence, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your injuries. Contact Sevenish Law today to arrange for a free initial case consultation. Our Clients First® Bill of Rights ensures your case will receive the care it deserves.