Most often, TBI results from injuries sustained in motor vehicle collisions and falls, although sports injuries, violence and work-related injuries also contribute to these statistics. Led by chair, Jonathan Hodes, UofL Physicians–Neurosurgery includes experts in the surgical and medical treatment of brain injuries. During Brain Injury Awareness Month, Hodes reminds people that it’s important to seek medical attention any time someone sustains a blow to the head that causes any of these:
• loss of consciousness (“passing out”) for more than 5 minutes
• persistent confusion
• vomiting
• differences in the size of the pupils
An Ounce of Prevention
Minimize your chances of injury:
• HOME: ensure adequate lighting; remove loose throw rugs; lock basement doors to prevent accidental falls
• WORK: maintain a clutter-free environment; follow appropriate OSHA guidelines (harnesses, hardhats, etc), and use tools appropriate for the job; never stand on the top step of a ladder
• SPORTS: utilize appropriate safety gear (helmets and mouth gear) and playing techniques
• TRAVEL: wear seatbelt/helmet; do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol; do not text and drive
• YOUTH: never shake or strike an infant or small child; carefully monitor children on elevated surfaces (bed, couch, etc.); fasten tall and top-heavy furniture to the wall to avoid toppling
Your Brain Specialists
To contact Neurosurgery, call 502-899-3623. For Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, call 502-584-3377. Referring providers can contact the Referral Hotline at 1-855-56-NEURO (855-566-3876).
For more information, visit uoflphysicians.com/neurosurgery.
Editor’s Note: UofL Today reprints articles from the “UofL Physicians-Insider” newsletter. Read the entire March Issue (opens as a PDF document).