Análisis multivariado de factores pronósticos en niños con traumatismo craneoencefálico grave que requirieron craneotomía descompresiva

Introducción: El traumatismo craneoencefálico en edades pediátricas constituye un problema de salud relevante a nivel mundial y en Cuba. Objetivo: Determinar los factores pronósticos del trauma craneoencefálico grave en niños que requirieron craneotomía descompresiva. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal correlacional, de tipo serie de casos, en el Servicio de Neurocirugía del Hospital Pediátrico de Camagüey durante el período comprendido desde enero de 2019 a diciembre de 2021. Fueron estudiados un total de 27 niños con traumatismo craneoencefálico grave, que cumplieron con los criterios de selección de la investigación. Las variables analizadas incluyeron: grupo etario, sexo, intensidad de la lesión, técnica quirúrgica, perfusión cerebral y resultados quirúrgicos obtenidos. Resultados: Predominó el grupo etario de 11-18 años (45,5 %) y el sexo masculino (72,7 %). El mayor puntaje en la variable intensidad de la lesión correspondió con la realización de craneotomías bilaterales (media = 78,63). Se halló disminución significativa (p = 0,024) de la perfusión cerebral en los pacientes con edad menor o igual a 8 años (media = 61,6387) y se encontró más disminuida en los pacientes que requirieron craneotomía bilateral (p = 0,001). Los peores resultados obtenidos correspondieron a los pacientes con edad biológica igual o menor a 8 años, que requirieron craneotomía bilateral. Conclusiones: La edad menor a 8 años se relacionó con mayor deterioro de la perfusión cerebral y peores resultados. La necesidad de craneotomías bilaterales se asoció con mayor intensidad de la lesión encefálica, presión intracraneal preoperatoria más elevada y deterioro de la perfusión cerebral.

Introduction: Cranioencephalic trauma in pediatric ages is a relevant health problem worldwide and in Cuba. Objective: To determine the prognostic factors of severe cranioencephalic trauma in children who required decompressive craniotomy. Methods: A cross-sectional and correlational study of case series type was carried out at the neurosurgery service of Hospital Pediátrico de Camagüey during the period from January 2019 to December 2021. A total of 27 children with severe cranioencephalic trauma who met the research selection criteria were studied. The analyzed variables included age group, sex, injury intensity, surgical technique, cerebral perfusion and obtained surgical outcomes. Results: The age group 11-18 years (45.5 %) and male sex (72.7 %) predominated. The highest score in the variable injury intensity corresponded to the realization of bilateral craniotomies (mean = 78.63). A significant decrease (p = 0.024) in cerebral perfusion was found in patients aged 8 years or under (mean = 61.6387) and it was found to be more diminished in patients who required bilateral craniotomy (p = 0.001). The worst obtained outcomes corresponded to patients with a biological age of 8 years or under, who required bilateral craniotomy. Conclusions: Age under 8 years was associated with greater cerebral perfusion impairment and worse outcomes. The need for bilateral craniotomies was associated with greater intensity of the encephalic injury, higher preoperative intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion impairment.

Psychiatric disorders in post-traumatic brain injury patients: A scoping review.

Background: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an important antecedent in the evaluation of patients with psychiatric disorders. The association between TBI and the subsequent appearance of psychiatric disorders has been documented, however, the findings found in the literature are diverse and controversial. Objective: To identify the most prevalent psychiatric disorders after head trauma. Design: An exploratory review (SCOPING) was carried out using the PRISMA extension protocol. Articles published between the years 2010-2022 were used to identify and describe the most prevalent psychiatric disorders after a TBI. Psychiatric disorders were classified according to clinical characteristics in neurotic syndromes, psychotic syndromes, cognitive disorders, among others. Results: A total of 32 articles were included. In the framework of neurotic syndromes, depression is the most prevalent psychiatric alteration after a TBI, becoming a sequel that shows a higher incidence in the first year after the traumatic event. The findings found in relation to post-traumatic stress disorder are controversial, showing great variability regarding the degree of severity of the injury. The prevalence of psychotic syndromes is relatively low because it is difficult to determine if the psychosis is a direct consequence of a TBI. In the cognitive sphere, it was found that people with TBI presented alterations in cognitive functions. Conclusions: The findings found in the review respond to the hypothesis initially raised, which assumes that head trauma is an important etiological factor in the appearance of psychiatric disorders.

Craniofacial trauma: Experience in private hospital care during the pandemic provoked by SARS-CoV-2.

BACKGROUND: The onset of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic brought with it important changes in the hospital care for all diseases. According to the international literature, since the beginning of the pandemic there has been an impact in the incidence, etiology, and severity of head trauma, all these changes as a direct consequence of lockdown. OBJECTIVE: In this article we analyzed the characteristics of craniofacial trauma in patients admitted to a private hospital in Mexico City during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. METHOD: Medical records from patients admitted in Medica Sur between March 2020 and June 2021. In this study, incidence, etiology, severity of the injuries and the SARS-CoV-2 PCR result performed upon admission were analyzed. RESULTS: Although there is no study in Mexico like ours, the results were similar to those reported by other hospital centers worldwide, presenting a greater number of cases classified as mild craniofacial trauma, in addition to finding that the main age group affected were older adults. CONCLUSIONS: The reported information in our study provides a general view of craniofacial trauma characteristics during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El inicio de la pandemia provocada por SARS-CoV-2 trajo consigo importantes cambios en los cuidados hospitalarios para todas las enfermedades. De acuerdo con la literatura internacional, desde el comienzo, y a consecuencia del aislamiento, ha existido un impacto en la incidencia, la etiología y la gravedad del trauma craneomaxilofacial. OBJETIVO: Estudiar las características del trauma craneofacial en los pacientes ingresados a un hospital privado en la Ciudad de México durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2. MÉTODO: Se revisaron los expedientes clínicos de los pacientes ingresados a Médica Sur, entre marzo de 2020 y junio de 2021. Se analizaron la incidencia, la etiología, la gravedad de las lesiones y el resultado de la prueba de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa para SARS-CoV-2 que se realizó durante la atención hospitalaria. RESULTADOS: En México no existe un estudio semejante al nuestro, pero los resultados fueron similares a los reportados por otros centros hospitalarios en el mundo, presentando un mayor número de casos clasificados como traumatismo craneofacial leve, además de encontrar que el principal grupo de edad afectado fueron los adultos mayores. CONCLUSIONES: La información reportada en nuestro estudio brinda un panorama general sobre las características del trauma craneofacial durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2.

Comparación de la eficacia de la transfusión de paquetes globulares de ≤ 15 vs ≥ 16 a 40 días de extracción sobre los efectos hemodinámicos y gasométricos de pacientes con traumatismo craneoencefálico severo en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos / Comparison of the efficacy of the transfusion of globular packages of ≤ 15 vs ≥ 16 to 40 days of extraction on the hemodynamic and gasometric effects of patients with severe traumatic brain in the Intensive Care Unit / Comparação da eficácia da transfusão de hemácias de ≤ 15 vs ≥ 16 a 40 dias de extração sobre os efeitos hemodinâmicos e gasométricos de pacientes com traumatismo cranioencefálico grave na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

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Abstract: Introduction: since the beginning of blood banks, refinements in laboratory processes have allowed longer red blood cell storage times. While advantageous to the logistics of stock management, the clinical impact of RBC storage duration prior to transfusion remains uncertain and a topic of growing interest. Although the structural, biochemical, and impermeable changes that red blood cells undergo during storage are well described, the evidence that this storage injury translates into adverse clinical outcomes for patients receiving blood with longer storage times remains controversial. Objective: to compare the efficacy of the transfusion of globular packages of ≤ 15 days of extraction vs. globular packages ≥ 16-40 days of extraction in the hemodynamic and gasometric repercussion of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit of HE CMNO. Material and methods: a controlled, single-center, randomized, single-blind, prospective and comparative clinical trial was conducted, where patients between 18 and 80 years of age with severe postoperative cranioencephalic trauma who required blood transfusions were invited to participate. Participants were included in two random groups, group F and group E. Group F was administered packed cells ≤ 15 days of extraction. Group E will be administered globular packages ≥ 16-40 days of extraction. During the study, various hemodynamic and biochemical variables were measured before, during, and after blood transfusion, and a comparison of the results obtained between groups F and E was subsequently made. Results: in the present study, a total of 26 patients with severe TBI were included and who were transfused with red blood cell packs, of the total number of patients, 13 were transfused with a «standard¼ red blood cell pack and another 13 patients with a «fresh¼ red blood cell pack. The average days of transfusion after extraction were 18 and 14 days for the «standard¼ and «fresh¼ packs, respectively (p ≤ 0.001). Twenty-one infectious events were reported, 11 in the group of patients who were transfused with the standard pack and 10 in the fresh pack group. Mortality at 28 days was estimated in 31% of the patients transfused with the standard pack and in 23% of the patients with the fresh pack (RR, for 28-day mortality of 0.90 [95% CI 0.56-144]). The median duration time in the intensive care unit was 8 days for both groups (0.32 SD), and of the days associated with the ventilator, 15 days were observed for the group of patients with the standard package and 7 for the group with fresh package (0.60 SD), without discovering statistically significant differences in these variables. However, in this analysis statistically significant differences were found for the gasometric parameters of central venous oxygen saturation, cardiac output (Fick) and lactate before and after transfusion in favor of the group of patients transfused with fresh pack (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: the results of this study infer that there is no association between the storage time of transfused red blood cells and the presence of adverse clinical outcomes with longer storage times. In both groups, transfusions were equally safe and effective. The researchers refer to the sample size as a limitation for this study.

Resumo: Introdução: desde o surgimento dos bancos de sangue, o refinamento dos processos laboratoriais permitiu tempos de estocagem cada vez mais longos para as hemácias. Embora vantajoso para a logística do gerenciamento de estoque, o impacto clínico da duração do armazenamento de glóbulos vermelhos antes da transfusão permanece incerto e um tópico de interesse crescente. Embora as alterações estruturais, bioquímicas e imunológicas pelas quais as hemácias sofrem durante o armazenamento sejam bem descritas, as evidências de que essa lesão de armazenamento resulta em resultados clínicos adversos para pacientes que recebem sangue armazenado por mais tempo permanecem controversas. Objetivo: comparar a eficácia da transfusão de concentrado de hemácias ≤ 15 dias de extração vs concentrado de hemácias ≥ 16-40 dias de extração nas repercussão hemodinâmica e gasométrica dos pacientes com traumatismo cranioencefálico (TCE) grave, internados em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva do HE CMN Occidente. Material e métodos: realizou-se um ensaio clínico, controlado, unicêntrico, randomizado, simples-cego, prospectivo e comparativo, onde foram convidados a participar pacientes com idade entre 18 e 80 anos com traumatismo cranioencefálico grave submetidos a hemicraniectomia descompressiva com necessidade de transfusão sanguínea. Os participantes foram incluídos aleatoriamente em 2 grupos, grupo F e grupo E. Grupo F recebeu concentrado de hemácias ≤ 15 dias após a extração. O grupo E receberá concentrado de hemácias ≥ 16-40 dias após a extração. Durante o estudo, várias variáveis hemodinâmicas e bioquímicas foram medidas antes, durante e após a transfusão de sangue, e posteriormente foi feita uma comparação dos resultados obtidos entre os grupos F e E. Resultados: no presente estudo incluíram-se um total de 26 pacientes com TCE grave e que foram transfundidos com concentrado de hemácias, do total de pacientes 13 foram transfundidos com um concentrado de hemácias «padrão¼ e outros 13 pacientes com um concentrado de hemácias «fresco¼. A média de dias de transfusão após a extração foi de 18 e 14 dias para as pacotes «padrão¼ e «fresco¼, respectivamente (p ≤ 0.001). Relatou-se 21 eventos infecciosos, 11 no grupo de pacientes que receberam transfusão com concentrado padrão e 10 no grupo com concentrado fresco. A mortalidade em 28 dias foi estimada em 31% dos pacientes transfundidos com concentrado padrão e em 23% dos pacientes com concentrado fresco (RR, para mortalidade em 28 dias de 0.90 (IC 95% 0.56-144). A duração mediana na unidade de terapia intensiva foi de 8 dias para ambos os grupos (0.32 DP), sendo que 2 dias associados ao ventilador, foram observados 15 dias para o grupo de pacientes com concentrado padrão e 7 para o grupo de concentrado fresco (0.60 DE), sem descobrir diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas referidas variáveis.No entanto, nesta análise foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas para os parâmetros gasométricos de saturação venosa central de oxigênio, débito cardíaco (Fick) e lactato antes e após a transfusão em favor do grupo de pacientes transfundidos com concentrado fresco (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusão: os resultados deste estudo inferem que não há associação entre o tempo de estocagem das hemácias transfundidas e a presença de desfechos clínicos adversos com tempos de estocagem mais longos. Em ambos os grupos, as transfusões foram igualmente seguras e eficazes. Os pesquisadores referem-se ao tamanho da amostra como limitante para este estudo.

Window Collisions by Birds in Brazil: Epidemiologic Factors and Radiographic and Necropsy Assessments.

Birds are among the most visually proficient group of animals on the planet; however, their inability to visualize and discriminate translucent glass structures results in an extreme number of deaths worldwide from high-speed collisions. Despite reports of avian glass collisions in North America, only a few studies have been developed to understand this problem in South America, and none evaluated radiographic and postmortem findings. One hundred cadavers were examined radiographically and postmortem, and data from 186 collision reports were analyzed for seasonality (website and manual reports and cadavers). A total of 34 different species of birds within 22 families were evaluated for this study, with the rufous-bellied thrush (Turdus rufiventris; n = 12), eared dove (Zenaida auriculata; n = 12), and ruddy ground dove (Columbina talpacoti; n = 10) being the most common species. Only 6 (27.7%) migratory species were reported: Sick's swift (Chaetura meridionalis), small-billed elaenia (Elaenia parvirostris), Black Jacobin (Florisuga fusca), Great kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus), Double-collared seedeater (Sporophila caerulescens), and Creamy-bellied thrush (Turdus amaurochalinus). Males (51) were more frequently reported than females (5), and 50.1% of the males had active gonads. Sex was unable to be determined in 44 birds. The most common radiographic lesion, noted in 16 of 82 (19.5%) animals, was loss of coelomic definition, suggestive of hemorrhage. Prevalent postmortem findings included skull hemorrhages (58/75, 77.3%) and encephalic contusions (47/73, 64.4%), followed by coelomic hemorrhages (33/81, 40.7%). Most of the window collisions (61/186, 32.8%) occurred during spring, the most common breeding season of avian species in Brazil. Cranioencephalic trauma was identified as the primary cause of mortality associated with birds flying into glass windows. Migration does not appear to be the main predisposing factor for window collisions by birds in Brazil. Increased activity and aggression related to breeding season, especially in males, may be a more important predisposing factor for window collision accidents.

Trauma craneoencefálico penetrante por una herida de arpón. Presentación de un caso / Penetrating cranioencephalic trauma due to harpoon wound. Presentation of a case

RESUMEN Las heridas craneocerebrales penetrantes más frecuentes son las provocadas por armas de fuego; las restantes resultan de rara frecuencia. Se presentó un caso que recibió agresión craneoencefálica por arpón, de forma accidental, fuera del agua. Se describieron los detalles del suceso, los exámenes complementarios, la conducta adoptada, el manejo neuroquirúrgico, y la sorprendente evolución postoperatoria del paciente (AU).

ABSTRACT The most frequent penetrating craniocerebral wounds are those caused by firearms; the remaining ones are rare. We presented a case that received accidental cranioencephalic aggression by harpoon, an event that occurred out of the water. Details of the event, complementary examinations, adopted behavior and neurosurgical management that were decided, as well as the surprising post-operative evolution of the patient were described (AU).

Factores de riesgo asociados a la mortalidad en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico agudo / Risk factors associated with mortality in patients with acute craniocerebral trauma

Introducción: El traumatismo craneoencefálico corresponde a cambios y alteraciones que sufre el encéfalo, sus envolturas meníngeas, la bóveda craneal o los tejidos blandos epicraneales por la acción de agentes físicos vulnerantes. Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo modificables y no modificables determinantes de la mortalidad en el posoperatorio inmediato en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico agudo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo longitudinal prospectivo en una muestra de 38 pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente por trauma craneoencefálico, tratados en el Hospital Universitario Manuel Ascunce Domenech, en los años 2016 al 2019. Se trabajó con las variables: edad, sexo, estado físico, clasificación del traumatismo craneoencefálico, complicaciones inmediatas y mortalidad en el posoperatorio inmediato. Resultados: El trauma craneoencefálico quirúrgico resultó frecuente en pacientes jóvenes del sexo masculino que estuvieron evaluados de ASA-III. Predominaron los pacientes con trauma moderado según la escala de Glasgow. A pesar de no guardar asociación significativa con la mortalidad, el edema cerebral, la hiperglucemia y la hipotermia fueron las complicaciones encontradas con mayor frecuencia. Conclusiones: El trauma craneoencefálico quirúrgico resultó más frecuente en pacientes jóvenes. A pesar de las complicaciones presentadas, la mayoría de ellos egresaron del servicio de urgencia vivos(AU)

Introduction: Cranioencephalic trauma corresponds to changes and alterations suffered by the brain, its meningeal envelopes, the cranial vault, or the epicranial soft tissues due to the action of damaging physical agents. Objective: To identify modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors that determine mortality in the immediate postoperative period among patients with acute head trauma. Methods: A prospective and longitudinal descriptive study was carried out with a sample of 38 patients who received surgery for head trauma, treated at Manuel Ascunce Domenech University Hospital, from 2016 to 2019. We worked with the following variables: age, sex, physical state, classification of cranioencephalic trauma, immediate complications, and mortality in the immediate postoperative period. Results: Surgical head trauma was frequent among young male patients who were evaluated as ASA-III. Patients with mild trauma, according to the Glasgow scale, predominated. Despite not having a significant association with mortality, cerebral edema, hyperglycemia and hypothermia were the most frequently found complications. Conclusions: Surgical head trauma was more frequent among young patients. Despite the complications presented, most of them left the emergency service alive(AU)

Abducens Nerve Palsy as Initial Manifestation of Chronic Subdural Hematoma: Case Report

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a form of progressive intracranial hemorrhage, typically associated with cases of trauma. The manifestation of this comorbidity with abducens palsy is a rare finding. The present work aims to describe the case of an adult patient with abducens nerve palsy as a manifestation of CSDH. Chronic subdural hematoma is most commonly found in elderly patients, with systemic hypertension as amanifestation. The relation with the sixth cranial nerve is unusual and draws attention to the case reported. In addition, the prognosis is positive, since trepanation and drainage surgery was performed, as it is recommended in the literature.

Epidemiological Aspects of Cranioencephalic Trauma at Cuiabá Municipal Hospital, Brazil / Aspectos Epidemiológicos de los Traumatismos Craneoencefálicos Atendidos en el Hospital Municipal de Cuiabá, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Cranioencephalic trauma (CET) is defined is the combination of neural and vascular injuries and their inflammatory effects in the brain, skull and scalp. This modality of trauma may lead to motor, psychological and cognitive sequels or even death. The present study aimed to assess the main epidemiological aspects in victims of CET treated at Cuiabá Municipal Hospital (CMH), Brazil. An observational and analytical study was performed in the medical records of patients diagnosed with CET treated at CMH between July and December of 2000, 2006 and 2011. The information retrieved from the patients consisted of age, sex, place of residence, cause of trauma, association with other trauma, outcomes (death or discharge) and the severity of neurological effect (Glasgow Coma Scale). The data obtained was analyzed descriptively with absolute (n) and relative (%) quantification. Medical records of 669 victims were analyzed, out of which 567 were males (84.7 %). Male patients were aged between 20 and 39 years old (mean age: 32.8 years). The most prevalent cause of trauma was the motorcycle accident (26.6 %). The neurological severity of the CET was mild in most of the cases (32.5 %). Considering the place of residence, most of the patients (n=331; 49.5 %) were from the capital city of Mato Grosso State (Cuiabá, Brazil). Four-hundred seventy-nine (71.6 %) patients progressed without death. A high prevalence rate of CET was observed at CMH. Major attention must be given to young adult victims of motorcycle accidents.

RESUMEN: El traumatismo craneoencefálico (TCE) se define como una combinación de daño neural, insuficiencia vascular y efectos inflamatorios que comprometen el cráneo, el encéfalo y el cuero cabelludo, causando la muerte, o serias secuelas motoras, psicológicas y cognitivas. De esta forma, el objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar los principales aspectos epidemiológicos en victimas de Traumatismo Craneoencefálico (TCE) atendidas en el Hospital y Sala de Primeros Auxilios Municipal de Cuiabá (HPSMC), Brasil. Se trata de un estudio observacional de historias clínicas del archivo del HPSMC, admitidos con diagnóstico de TCE en el período de julio a diciembre de los años 2000, 2006 y 2011. Se consideraron el rango de edad, el sexo, la procedencia de las víctimas, la causa del trauma, la asociación con otros traumas, la defunción y el alta, el cuadro neurológico (Escala de Coma de Glasgow - ECG). El análisis de los datos fue descriptivo con números absolutos y porcentajes. Se evaluaron historias clínicas de 669 víctimas de TCE, en los que el sexo masculino fue el de mayor prevalencia con 567 casos (84,7 %), con mayor incidencia en el rango de edad de 20 a 39 años (39,2 %), el promedio de edad fue de 32,8 años, siendo la etiología más frecuente los accidentes motociclísticos (26,6 %). En el momento de la admisión de acuerdo al ECG hubo una predominancia de TCE leve (32,5 %). En cuanto a la procedencia, 331 (49,5 %) eran del municipio de Cuiabá. Del total de víctimas, 479 (71,6 %) evolucionaron hasta tener el alta hospitalaria. Se registró una prevalencia elevada de TCE en el HPSMC, con predominancia de víctimas adultas jóvenes de sexo masculino, siendo los accidentes motociclísticos la principal causa.

Post-traumatic Tension Pneumoventricle: Case Report

Pneumoventricle and liquoric fistula are possible complications of traumatic brain injury (TBI), the main cause of morbimortality related to trauma in Brazil. Liquoric fistulae are more common after direct trauma with skull base fractures. However, pneumoventricle is rare and occurs due to excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage in the presence of a poorly compliant ventricle system, resulting in the influx of air to its interior. The pathophysiology of tension pneumoventricle remains uncertain. However, the traumatic cause is certain andmultiple bone fractures of the face and liquoric fistula may contribute to the process. If symptomatic, the tension pneumoventricle can cause rapid clinical deterioration. The authors aim to report a rare case of post-TBI tension pneumoventricle with complete resolution and without signs of recurrence of the liquoric fistula after surgical treatment.

Repercusión social en la persona con traumatismo craneoencefálico / Social repercussion in the person with traumatic brain injury

Resumen

Introducción: el enfoque social de una lesión cerebral por traumatismo craneoencefálico, de primera instancia, tiene que ver con la adquisición de una discapacidad que tendrá un impacto importante sobre la función social de quién lo padece.

Desarrollo: incluye los aspectos de percepción y manejo del trauma craneoencefálico, el cual se manifiesta por deterioro físico o funcional con daño neuropsicológico, la presencia de lesiones primarias y lesiones secundarias denominadas insultos extra neurológicos interfieren en la atención, la memoria, las funciones frontales, la emoción y la conducta. La valoración neuropsicológica posterior al traumatismo craneoencefálico se enfoca al deterioro intelectual, la movilidad voluntaria y el nivel de conciencia.

Conclusiones: el entorno social de las personas con traumatismo craneoencefálico, de acuerdo con la magnitud de la lesión, pueden presentar reacciones antisociales, por lo tanto la intervención de un profesional neuroeducador es la mejor alternativa para mejorar las respuestas conductuales, cognitivas y de aprendizaje.

Abstract

Introduction: The social approach to a brain injury due to traumatic brain injury, first instance has to do with the acquisition of a disability, which will have a significant impact on the social function of who has it.

Development: Includes aspects of perception and management of cranioencephalic trauma, which is manifested by physical or functional impairment with neuropsychological damage, presence of primary lesions and secondary lesions called extra neurological insults interfere with attention, memory, frontal functions, emotion and behavior. The neuropsychological assessment after traumatic brain injury focuses on intellectual deterioration, voluntary mobility and level of consciousnes.

Conclusions: The social environment of people with traumatic brain injury, according to the magnitude of the injury, may present antisocial reactions; therefore the intervention of a neuroeducator is the best alternative to improve the behavioral, cognitive and learning responses.

Generalidades de trauma cráneo encefálico en medicina legal / Generalities of traumatic brain injury in legal medicine

Resumen:El Trauma Cráneo Encefálico (TCE) tiene hoy en día una incidencia muy alta de morbilidad y mortalidad en nuestra población, por lo que es de suma importancia esclarecer los conceptos básicos de las lesiones producidas por el TCE, su cronología y el pronóstico de dichos traumas. Este artículo se basa en identificar las lesiones primarias y secundarias más frecuentes y las características más importantes de cada una de ellas, así como describir los mecanismos de trauma frecuentemente implicados.

Abstract:The Brain Trauma (TCE) has a very high incidence of morbidity and mortality in its population today, so it is very important to clarify the basic concepts of the injuries produced by the TCE, its timing and the prognosis of these traumas. This article is based on identifying the most frequent primary and secondary lesions and the most important characteristics of each, as well as describing the mechanisms of trauma frequently involved

Biomaterials for Reconstruction of Cranial Defects

Cranioplasty is defined as the surgical repair of a cranial defect to restore the structure and function of the skull. Archaeological records show attempts of cranioplasty since the dawn of human civilization, but until today there is no consensus among neurosurgeons around the world-regarding the best material for cranioplasty. Relocation of the originally removed bone graft is still the best option, but is not always available. In modern cranioplasty, different materials can be used for the repair of cranial defects, such as metals, plastics, acrylics, and ceramics. Recent studies have sought to identify which materials provide the best long-term results, but scientific evidence is poor. Presurgical decisions must consider the experience of the surgical service and the individual conditions of the patient. In this study, we discuss the main characteristics of the materials used today for the reconstruction of cranial defects.

A cranioplastia é definida como o reparo cirúrgico de um defeito craniano, com o objetivo de restaurar a estrutura e a função do crânio. Evidências arqueológicas demonstram tentativas de cranioplastia desde os primórdios da civilização humana, porém ainda hoje não há consenso entre neurocirurgiões de todo o mundo a respeito do melhor material para a cranioplastia. Realocar o enxerto ósseo originalmente removido ainda é a melhor opção, porém nem sempre é uma possibilidade. Na cranioplastia moderna, diferentes materiais podem ser utilizados para reparar o defeito craniano, tais como metais, plásticos, acrílicos e cerâmicas. Estudos recentes vêm buscando identificar quais os materiais com melhores resultados em longo prazo; entretanto, as evidências científicas são escassas. Decisões pré-cirúrgicas devem levar em consideração a experiência do serviço cirúrgico e as condições individuais do paciente. Neste estudo discutimos as principais características dos materiais utilizados para o reparo de defeitos cranianos na atualidade.

Caracterización del trauma craneal por agresión, en Matanzas / Characterization of cranial trauma by aggression in Matanzas

Introducción: el trauma craneoencefálico por agresión constituye un motivo de consulta frecuente en los Servicios de Neurocirugía del país. Objetivo: El objetivo fue conocer la incidencia, lesiones más frecuentes, estado al ingreso, mortalidad y secuelas tempranas del paciente que ha sufrido una agresión neurotraumática con necesidad de atención especializada. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, donde se caracterizaron 39 pacientes ingresados en el Servicio de Neurocirugía de Matanzas, en un período de dos años, que presentaron trauma craneoencefálico causado por agresión. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino (77 %) y por debajo de los 45 años (77,4 %), en estado de embriaguez al momento del trauma (55 %). El agente vulnerante más usado en la agresión fue el machete. El 72 % de los casos ingresó con una puntuación en la escala de Glasgow entre 14 y 15; el 18 % entre, 13 y 9, y el 10 % por debajo de 8 puntos. Entre las lesiones que más se encontraron están las fracturas lineales, las fracturas deprimidas penetrantes, los focos contusivos y la presencia de hematoma epidural, 2 pacientes presentaron lesión del seno sagital superior. Requirieron cirugía el 74 % de los casos y el Glasgow al egreso fue bueno en el 77 % de los pacientes. Conclusiones: la agresión como causa de trauma craneoencefálico es relativamente frecuente en nuestro medio; la patología es casi exclusiva del sexo masculino; la riña y el alcohol están directamente relacionados con el trauma. En general, el trauma craneoencefálico por agresión presentó una baja mortalidad, pero una estimable morbilidad.

Background: Cranioencephalic trauma by aggression is a motive of frequent consultation in the Neurosurgery Services of the country. Aim: The aim was to know its incidence, its more frequent lesions, status at admission, mortality and early sequels of the patient who suffered a neurotraumatic aggression with special care necessity. Materials and methods: an observational, descriptive study was carried out characterizing 39 patients admitted in the Neurosurgery Services of Matanzas in a two-year period, who presented cranioencephalic trauma due to aggression. Outcomes: male sex predominated (77 %) and people aged less than 45 years (77.4 %), being drank at the moment of the trauma (55 %). Machete was the most used vulnerary agent in the aggression. 72 % of the cases were admitted with a 14 and 15 punctuation in the Glasgow Scale; 18 % among 13 and 9 points, and 10 % below 8 points. Among the most frequently found lesions are lineal fractures, penetrating depressed fractures, contusive focuses and the presence of epidural hematoma. 2 patients presented high sagittal sinus lesion. 74 % of the cases needed surgical treatment and Glasgow punctuation at discharge was good in 77 % of the patients. Conclusions: Aggression as a cause of cranioencephalic trauma is relatively frequent in our surroundings; the pathology is almost exclusive of the male gender; quarrelling and alcohol are directly related with the trauma. In general, cranioencephalic trauma by aggression presents low mortality, but a considerable morbidity.

[Third cranial nerve palsy and Purtscher retinopathy in a child with multiple injuries]. / Parálisis del tercer nervio craneal y retinopatía de Purtscher en niña politraumatizada.

CASE REPORT: A 4 year-old girl was referred to our hospital after have suffered a severe accident. The patient was diagnosed with complete third nerve palsy in her right eye and Purtscher retinopathy in her left eye. DISCUSSION: Purtscher retinopathy is a rare condition. The diagnosis is made on clinical ground and its treatment is not well defined although it is believed that systemic steroids could improve the visual outcome. Traumatic third nerve palsy has a poor spontaneous recovery. The use of botulinum toxin might be useful in children to improve the recovery rate, maintaining binocularity, and avoiding amblyopia in other cases.

Prevención de las lesiones secundarias asociadas al traumatismo craneoencefálico grave en el medio extrahospitalario / Prevention of secondary lesions associated to serious cranioencephalic trauma in extra hospital environment

A pesar de los avances en tratamiento del traumatismo craneoencefálico, este continúa cobrando vidas y en otros casos dejando secuelas permanentes que no permiten la integración del individuo a la sociedad, ocasionan una situación psicológica inaceptable para el paciente y la familia, que en muchas ocasiones debe apartarse de su trabajo, lo que provoca una carga económica adicional que aunada a la enfermedad hacen la vida familiar extremadamente difícil. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica con el objetivo de actualizar la conducta inicial en los pacientes con traumatismo craneoencefálico grave para prevenir las lesiones secundarias. Para ello, se llevó a cabo una revisión el tema en libros, documentos impresos y en línea, a partir de una búsqueda en las siguientes bases de datos: Pubmed, Registro Cochrane Central, Bireme, Ebsco, Mediclatina y Lilacs. Se seleccionaron los artículos científicos de forma que el total de ellos cumplieran con los siguientes criterios: el 70 % correspondientes a los últimos cinco años y de estos el 75 % a los últimos tres años. Se concluye que el tratamiento en la fase prehospitalaria es determinante para la evolución de los pacientes con traumatismo craneoencefálico grave, por tal motivo es necesaria una intervención rápida y adecuada para prevenir las lesiones secundarias.

Although there have been advances in cranioencephalic treatment, it still continues covering lives and in other cases leaving permanent sequels not allowing the integration to society, leading to a psychological situation that patients and his/her relatives could not agree to; in cases they should leave their job causing an additional economical charge that joined to disease make the family life extremely difficult. We carried out a bibliographic review with the objective of updating the initial behavior in patients with serious cranioencephalic trauma to prevent secondary lesions. For that we reviewed the theme in books, printed and online documents searching for in the following databases: Pubmed, central Cochrane register. Bireme. Ebsco, Mediclatina and Lilacs. We chose the scientifc articles in such a way that all of them would fulfill the following criteria: 70 % published in the last five years, and 75 % of them during the last three years. We arrived to the conclusion that pre-hospital stage treatment is determinant for the evolution of patients with serious cranioencephalic trauma; for that reason it is necessary a fast and adequate intervention to prevent secondary lesions.

Uso de las imágenes diagnósticas en el trauma craneoencefálico / Use of diagnostic imaging in head trauma

El trauma craneoencefálico es una causa frecuente de consulta en los servicios de urgencias, que conlleva un importante aumento en la morbimortalidad en toda la población, especialmente en los adultos jóvenes, con incremento en los costos en los sistemas de salud y en la salud pública con mayor frecuencia cuando hay secuelas. El diagnóstico temprano es vital para un tratamiento adecuado, especialmente quirúrgico, que puede cambiar y alterar el curso natural en la evolución del trauma con la disminución de secuelas. Por esta razón debemos conocer el uso racional y adecuado de las imágenes diagnósticas en el trauma craneoencefálico. [Ochoa SR. Uso de las imágenes diagnósticas en el trauma craneoencefálico. 62].

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a frequent cause of consultation in the emergency department, which carries a significant increase in morbidity and mortality of the population, especially young adults, with increased costs in health systems and public health , most often when there are sequels. The neuroimaging techniques can establish the injury presence and its extent, guide surgical planning and less invasive interventions, playing important roles in the acute therapy of TBI. The Imaging also can be important in the chronic therapy of TBI, identifying sequelae, determining prognosis, and guiding rehabilitation. [Ochoa SR. Use of diagnostic imaging in head trauma. MedUNAB 2012; 15:53-62].

Complicaciones del trauma craneoencefálico severo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Complications of severe cranioencephalic trauma in the pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción: el trauma craneoencefálico severo es responsable de serias complicaciones médicas que exacerban la lesión cerebral secundaria, y frecuentemente son la causa de muerte. Ojetivo: conocer las particularidades de las complicaciones médicas en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico severo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del hospital pediátrico Octavio de la Concepción y de la Pedraja durante los años comprendidos entre 2007-2009. Métodos: estudio descriptivo en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico, durante el período comprendido entre los años 2007-2009, para analizar las complicaciones que influyeron en su evolución clínica. Resultados: la edad más representada fue la comprendida entre los 11-15 años (56,90 por ciento); los pacientes incluidos en el grupo de 1-5 años resultaron más vulnerables a las complicaciones médicas. Las fracturas inestables (62,96 por ciento), la rotura de vísceras macizas (51,85 por ciento) y la insuficiencia respiratoria (44,44 por ciento) fueron las manifestaciones clínicas más evidentes al momento del ingreso. En la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos las complicaciones médicas frecuentes resultaron ser los trastornos hidroelectrolíticos (94,28 por ciento) y la desnutrición (77,14 por ciento). La hiperglicemia y el distrés respiratorio se relacionaron de manera significativa con la mortalidad. El 92,59 por ciento de los fallecidos sumaron 3 puntos en la escala de Glasgow. La ventilación mecánica fue independiente de las complicaciones médicas. Conclusiones: los traumas de cráneo severos son la base para el desarrollo de varias y graves complicaciones que plantean muchos problemas en la práctica médica(AU)

Introduction: the severe cranioencephalic trauma re responsible of serious medical exacerbating the secondary cerebral lesion and frequently are the cause of death. Objective: to know the particularities of the medical complications in patients presenting with severe cranioencephalic trauma seen in the Octavio de la Concepción y de la Pedraja Children Hospital from 2007 to 2009. Methods: a descriptive study was conducted in patients presenting with cranioencephalic trauma from 2007 to 2009 to analyze the complication influencing in its clinical course. Results: the age with a greater predominance was that between 11-15 years (56,90 percent); the patients included in the 1-5 years group were more vulnerable to medical complications. The unstable fractures (62,96 percent), break of solid viscera (51,85 percent) and the respiratory failure (44,44 percent) were the more obvious clinical manifestations at admission. In the Intensive Care Unit the more frequent clinical complications were: hydroelectric disorders (94,28 percent) and malnutrition (77,14 percent). Hyperglycemia and respiratory distress were significantly related to mortality. The 92,59 percent of deceased added 3 points in the Glasgow's scale. Mechanical ventilation was independent of medical complications. Conclusions: the severe cranial traumata are the basis for the development of some and severe complications present as a problem in the medical practice(AU)

Complicaciones del trauma craneoencefálico severo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Complications of severe cranioencephalic trauma in the pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción: el trauma craneoencefálico severo es responsable de serias complicaciones médicas que exacerban la lesión cerebral secundaria, y frecuentemente son la causa de muerte. Ojetivo: conocer las particularidades de las complicaciones médicas en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico severo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del hospital pediátrico Octavio de la Concepción y de la Pedraja durante los años comprendidos entre 2007-2009. Métodos: estudio descriptivo en pacientes con trauma craneoencefálico, durante el período comprendido entre los años 2007-2009, para analizar las complicaciones que influyeron en su evolución clínica. Resultados: la edad más representada fue la comprendida entre los 11-15 años (56,90 por ciento); los pacientes incluidos en el grupo de 1-5 años resultaron más vulnerables a las complicaciones médicas. Las fracturas inestables (62,96 por ciento), la rotura de vísceras macizas (51,85 por ciento) y la insuficiencia respiratoria (44,44 por ciento) fueron las manifestaciones clínicas más evidentes al momento del ingreso. En la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos las complicaciones médicas frecuentes resultaron ser los trastornos hidroelectrolíticos (94,28 por ciento) y la desnutrición (77,14 por ciento). La hiperglicemia y el distrés respiratorio se relacionaron de manera significativa con la mortalidad. El 92,59 por ciento de los fallecidos sumaron 3 puntos en la escala de Glasgow. La ventilación mecánica fue independiente de las complicaciones médicas. Conclusiones: los traumas de cráneo severos son la base para el desarrollo de varias y graves complicaciones que plantean muchos problemas en la práctica médica

Introduction: the severe cranioencephalic trauma re responsible of serious medical exacerbating the secondary cerebral lesion and frequently are the cause of death. Objective: to know the particularities of the medical complications in patients presenting with severe cranioencephalic trauma seen in the Octavio de la Concepción y de la Pedraja Children Hospital from 2007 to 2009. Methods: a descriptive study was conducted in patients presenting with cranioencephalic trauma from 2007 to 2009 to analyze the complication influencing in its clinical course. Results: the age with a greater predominance was that between 11-15 years (56,90 percent); the patients included in the 1-5 years group were more vulnerable to medical complications. The unstable fractures (62,96 percent), break of solid viscera (51,85 percent) and the respiratory failure (44,44 percent) were the more obvious clinical manifestations at admission. In the Intensive Care Unit the more frequent clinical complications were: hydroelectric disorders (94,28 percent) and malnutrition (77,14 percent). Hyperglycemia and respiratory distress were significantly related to mortality. The 92,59 percent of deceased added 3 points in the Glasgow's scale. Mechanical ventilation was independent of medical complications. Conclusions: the severe cranial traumata are the basis for the development of some and severe complications present as a problem in the medical practice

Cognitive rehabilitation and head injury / Reabilitação cognitiva no traumatismo cranioencefálico

The present study aims to present the cognitive benefits and the importance of the use of compensatory strategies for a better functional adaptation and for the quality of life in patient that underwent cognitive rehabilitation (CR), after a severe cranioencephalic trauma. A 24 years-old male carried out neuropsychological evaluation after eight months of car accident. CR program developed for one year and four months, with constant establishment of goal, cognitive training and use of compensatory strategies for the difficulties in the daily tasks. It is possible to notice through the neuropsychological revaluation that the cognitive profits with the CR were global, including reaching expected performance for his age group in some functions. There was also observed, reach of great part of the stipulated goals, adaptation to the difficulties in the daily activities through the use of the strategies and consequently improves in the quality of life. This is a case that shows the contribution of the CR for patients who suffered CET, even after the process of spontaneous recuperation, in a moment that, from the clinical point of view, constant sequels keeps in mind.

O presente estudo tem como objetivo apresentar os benefícios cognitivos e a importância do uso de estratégias compensatórias, para uma melhor adaptação funcional e para a qualidade de vida, em um paciente que foi submetido à reabilitação cognitiva (RC) após um trauma cranioencefálico grave. Após oito meses do acidente automobilístico, um jovem de 24 anos foi submetido a uma avaliação neuropsicológica, iniciando-se, em seguida, um programa de RC. Este programa foi realizado durante um ano e quatro meses, com o treino cognitivo, o uso de estratégias compensatórias para as dificuldades nas tarefas diárias e com constante avaliação das metas. Foi possível observar por meio da reavaliação neuropsicológica que os lucros com a RC foram globais, alcançando o desempenho esperado para a sua idade em algumas funções cognitivas. Pode-se observar também o alcance de grande parte das metas estipuladas, melhor adaptação às dificuldades anteriormente apresentadas nas atividades diárias com o uso das estratégias e, consequentemente, melhora na qualidade de vida. Este é um caso que mostra a contribuição do RC para pacientes que sofreram TCE, mesmo após o processo de recuperação espontânea, em um momento que, do ponto de vista clínico, já seriam consideradas sequelas.