Traumatic Brain Injury in Combat Trauma

Abstract

Purpose of Review

With more than 2 million American military personnel deployed and 350,000 traumatic brain injuries since 2001, civilian and military health care providers must recognize the impact and unique considerations for managing combat-related traumatic brain injuries. Here, we will review the etiology and manifestations of combat-related traumatic brain injuries with further discussion of acute management and aeromedical evacuation in the deployed setting.

Recent Findings

Traumatic brain injuries have emerged as the signature wound of the recent wars. Previously, lethal assaults on the human body are now routinely survivable due to improvements in protective equipment and battlefield medicine. Management centers on increased recognition and screening for TBI, and advanced imaging techniques are not routinely recommended at this time.

Summary

Unlike other physical injuries, traumatic brain injuries can occur in the absence of other physical wounds, making them more difficult to detect. Traumatic brain injuries have several short- and long-term manifestations and consequences that are important to recognize as healthcare providers.

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