English

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Severe brain injury is the most com-mon cause of death in trauma. Al-though surgical intervention is im-portant, prompt, directed medical management is imperative to ensure favourable outcomes. Optimization of perfusion and ventilation are para -mount, but other therapies, including glycaemic control, prophylaxis against deep-vein thrombosis and, perhaps, the use of tranexamic acid, are used to maximize survival. The aim of this review is to describe the initial treat -ment priorities for the physiological optimization of the patient with se -vere traumatic brain injury. Conclusion The key to successful resuscitation of patients with a traumatic brain injury is a rapid and systematic as -sessment, optimization of patient physiology and the prevention of sec -ondary injury. Introduction Severe brain injury is the most com-mon cause of death in trauma 1 . Severe brain injury is defined as a Glasgow coma scale (GCS) ≤8 or abbreviated injury score ≥3 2 . About 56% of all severe brain injuries are caused by motor vehicle crashes, and another 31% are due to falls