Synopses & Reviews
Head injuries are commonplace. Though most patients survive, the consequences, both physical and social, can be devastating. The methods of initial assessment and management can have a crucial effect on determining the outcome of the injury, and long-term effects. However, only a minority of head-injured patients are cared for by Neurosurgeons. The majority are seen by non-specialists, often junior doctors and nurses, and treated in district hospitals where specialist neurosurgical assistance is unavailable. As a guide for doctors and nurses working in the A and E department, or the Orthopaedic or General Surgical Ward, the emphasis of this book is on the early management of the head- injured patient. New to the second edition are chapters on managing the 'disturbed' head injured patient, a chapter of special value to nurses (who often have to deal with this difficult task). A new chapter on anaesthesia and head injuries has also been added, with other chapters significantly revised to reflect the crucial role played by anaesthetists in head injury management. Providing practical advice on the early treatment of minor head injuries, and the management of major head injuries, the book provides advice that will be essential in ensuring effective treatment of these patients.
Synopsis
Although head injury is common and can have devastating consequences for the patient, its initial assessment is usually carried out by non-specialists. This book covers the emergency treatment of minor injuries and the management of major head injuries before referral to the neurosurgical department. Concise practical guidelines are augmented by key points, lists, and clear photographs and line illustrations. The fifth book in the Oxford Handbooks in Emergency Medicine series, this volume will be especially useful for emergency room staff.
About the Author
David Currie is a Consultant Neurosurgeon based at the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The book has also benefited from the advice of two anaesthetists, and the overall editorial supervision of Dr Colin Robertson - one of the leading A and E Consultants in the UK
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Initial Assessment
3. Resuscitation
4. Neurological Deterioration
5. Radiology
6. Scalp and Skull Injuries
7. Cervical-spine Injuries
8. Head Injuries in Children
9. Operative Surgery
10. Delayed Complications
11. Transporting the Head-injured Patient