J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  1987 Dec;16(4):1183-1200.

Pathophysiology of Craniocerebal Trauma

• Kim HJ

Abstract

The past decade witnessed a new and improved understanding of the incidence and pathophysiology of secondary central nervous system insults from hypoxia, arterial hypotension and ischemia allowing altered therapeutic approaches for better patient outcome. Two recent observations of note are : (1) Traumatized neurons are more vulnerable to an ischemic brain insult than normal neurous. These traumatized neurons are functionung in abnormal ways, but potentially can recover to normality. (2) Some patients may show neurological deterioration even I the absence of elevated intracranial pressure or an ischemic or hypoxic insult. This neurological deterioration is probably the result of an adverse chemical environment such as release of fatty acids, free redicals, an acidotic medium, and others. Further research toward identifying and better defining this damaging chemical state is indicated and will certainly lead to improved treatment and neurological recovery.

Keyword

Secondary insults; Hypoxia; Hypotension; Ischemia; Fatty acid; Free redical

MeSH Terms

Anoxia
Brain
Central Nervous System
Fatty Acids, Nonesterified
Humans
Hypotension
Incidence
Intracranial Hypertension
Ischemia
Neurons
Fatty Acids, Nonesterified