As many Ohio residents know, traumatic brain injury may result from a blow to the head. Car accidents are common causes of such injuries, and skull fractures often occur. The extent of injury as well as the type of fracture is related to the intensity of the blow and the area of the head where it occurred. Skull fractures might be closed or open. The difference is whether the skin is broken. However, even closed fractures may result in brain trauma. One main consideration is the area of the cranial impact. In some parts of the skull, fracture is more likely to occur.
Skull fractures may be insidious or obvious, and symptoms may take time to develop. Some serious symptoms include bruising particularly posterior to the ears or around the eyes. The individuals may experience pain or bleeding at the site as well as swelling. Other symptoms include confusion, sleepiness, nausea or vomiting, difficulty with concentration or balance, headache and visual abnormalities. The individual may seem irritable and complain of neck stiffness. The individual’s pupils may show a decreased or absent reaction to light.
To determine the extent of injury, MRI’s and X-rays are used, but a CT scan is most commonly used for evaluating both the fracture and brain tissue damage. In some cases, analgesia and rest are needed while others may require surgery. Traumatic brain injury may result in continuing difficulties and interruption in the individual’s ability to perform tasks.
Individuals who incur traumatic brain injury as the result of a motor vehicle accident that is caused by the negligence of another driver may require extended hospital stays as well as physical and vocational rehabilitation. An attorney may help by evaluating the accident for liability using police accounts and witness statements in preparation of a possible filing of a personal injury lawsuit.
Source: Healthline, “Skull Fractures”, Mary Ellen Ellis, Aug. 15, 2012