A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disruption to normal brain function caused by a blow, jolt, or other force to the head. Sometimes referred to as craniocerebral trauma, this type of brain dysfunction can also be caused by a sharp object which penetrates the brain tissue, such as a bullet or shrapnel.

TBI is a complex injury with a broad range of potential symptoms and long-term complications. While mild brain injuries may only affect the brain cells temporarily, more serious TBI can result in torn tissue, bleeding, and other physical brain damage. The most severe cases can lead to permanent brain damage or death.

Millions of individuals experience brain injuries every year, with more than half of the cases warranting hospital treatment. Half of all TBIs are caused by motor vehicle accidents, but military personnel in combat zones are also at risk.

Because the brain dictates so many aspects of life, a Traumatic Brain Injury can result in a broad range of symptoms. No two brain injuries are alike, and symptoms may appear immediately or within the days and weeks afterward. While physical symptoms such as slurred speech, weakness in the arms and legs, serious headache, repeated vomiting or nausea, and others may occur, sensory and cognitive symptoms, as well as personality changes, may also develop. Mood changes, feelings of depression and anxiousness, agitation, light sensitivity, and changes in hearing, taste, or smell can arise. Symptoms and their severity can vary from one patient to the next and may differ depending on whether the injury is mild, moderate, or severe.

Traumatic Brain Injuries do not heal in the same way other injuries do. Recovery is a functional process and typically necessitates rehabilitation. Typically, TBIs require emergency care encompassing a neurological exam and imaging tests to quickly assess the impact of the injury. While mild TBI, or concussion, typically requires close monitoring and rest, moderate to severe TBI may require emergency surgery and medications to limit secondary brain damage. Post-injury care may also comprise rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, speech and language psychology, and psychological services.

Regenerative Medicine Therapy

Because there is currently little that can be done to reverse the initial brain damage caused by trauma, the focus of treatment for an individual with TBI is to prevent further injury. This typically includes ensuring ample oxygen supply to the brain, maintaining blood flow, and controlling blood pressure. One emerging area of focus is Regenerative Medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, which has been studied for potential improvements in neurological function in patients who have experienced TBI.

When a brain injury occurs, the trauma prompts the immune system to send cells to the injured area. This results in swelling, which can cause significant tissue damage and the death of brain cells, or neurons.  Regenerative Medicine such as stem cell therapy for traumatic brain injury has been studied to help restore functions that are lost as a result of TBI.

Some improvements in these studies have shown improvement in the areas of motor performance, balance, sensation, social cognition, self-care, and communication.