Case Report and Literature Review: A Severe Case of Blast-Related Traumatic Brain Injury

Asian J Neurosurg. 2024 Oct 3;19(4):816-824. doi: 10.1055/s-0044-1791582. eCollection 2024 Dec.

Abstract

Blast-related traumatic brain injuries (bTBIs), once considered the signature wound of wars, have increasingly affected civilian populations due to the rise in terrorist attacks and industrial accidents. These injuries are complex, resulting from a combination of primary blast effects, secondary projectiles, tertiary impacts, and quaternary injuries from burns and toxic gas inhalation. Understanding the clinical presentation, management strategies, and outcomes of bTBIs is essential for enhancing patient care and improving prognosis. We report a case of industrial-related severe bTBI with opened depressed skull fracture and intracranial hematoma. The patient underwent decompressive craniectomy and evacuation of clot but postoperatively had a stormy recovery and multiple complications. He eventually succumbed due to his complications. This underscores the complexity of bTBIs and highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of bTBIs. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and rehabilitation strategies for individuals with bTBIs.

Keywords: Glasgow Coma Scale; blast-related traumatic brain injury; case report; decompressive craniectomy; industrial blast; industrial injury; multidisciplinary approach; oxidative stress.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

Grants and funding

Funding None.