Brain Death in Motor Vehicle Accident in the USA: A Statistical Overview
Brain stem death occurs when a part of brain stem no longer works if this occurs the patient will no longer be able to be conscious or breath without the ventilator support. Motor vehicle accidents are the common cause of death and injury in Unites States of America. Most of the accidents are not fatal but the accidents which result in brain injury may lead to brain death in patients.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reported 38,800 deaths were from motor vehicle crashes in 2019 and not all these cases resulted in brain death there was a significant number of brain death cases.
There was a study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that of 160 patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) who were admitted to a Level 1 trauma Center, 17 (10.6%) were declared brain dead.
For many patients’ early intervention and treatment could be very crucial in reducing the mortality rates. The treatment protocols for the Brain death includes controlling intracranial pressure, providing mechanical ventilator support, or administering proper dosage of medication to manage the symptoms properly.
Taking proper step and obeying the traffic rules can prevent a significant number of motor vehicle accidents which is a significant contributor to the brain death. The tragic loss of life is devastating for the person involved in the accident, but it is excruciating for the loved ones. However, if they wish to donate their organs and if it was their end if life wish the organs are kept viable for few days and are donated as it is the main criteria for organ donation.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged by an unexpected, external, violent attack. It is one of the leading causes of adult mortality and disability. Traumatic brain injury is a broad term that refers to a wide range of damage to the brain. The damage might be localised (limited to a single area of the brain) or spread (occurring in multiple areas of the brain). A brain injury can range in severity from a moderate concussion to a serious injury that results in coma or even fatality.
Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury
- Loss of consciousness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Irritability
- Poor concentration
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
Types of Brain Injuries from Car Accidents
There are several types of brain injuries from car accidents. Some of the more common include:
- Concussion
- Brain Contusion
- Skull Fracture
- Hematoma
- Acquired Brain Injury
- Brain Penetration
- Coup-Contrecoup
- Diffuse Axonal Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury Treatments
Treatments for traumatic brain injuries have in various kinds of methods.
1. Mild Injury
Mild traumatic brain injuries typically do not require treatment beyond rest and over the counter pain medications to treat a headache. A person with a moderate traumatic brain injury, on the other hand, should be continuously followed at home for any continuing, getting worse, or new symptoms. He or she may also have additional appointments with their doctor.
2. Emergency Care
Emergency care for mild to serious traumatic brain injuries involves ensuring adequate oxygen and blood supply, controlling blood pressure, and avoiding further head or neck injury.
3. Medications
Medications that may be used to reduce secondary brain damage shortly following an injury include:
- Coma-inducing drugs
- Anti-seizure drugs
- Diuretics
4. Surgery
Emergency surgery may be required to prevent further brain tissue injury. Surgery may be performed to treat the following issues:
- Removing clotted blood
- Repairing skull fractures
- Opening a window in the skull
- Bleeding in the brain
5. Rehabilitation
The majority of persons who have suffered a serious brain damage will need rehabilitation. They may have to relearn fundamental abilities like walking or communicating. The aim is to enhance their ability to carry out daily tasks.
Rehabilitation experts may include:
- Physical therapist
- Neuropsychologist
- Occupational therapist
- Recreational therapist
- Rehabilitation nurse
- Physiatrist