Definition

Penetrating brain injury is when an object enters the skull and harms the brain. It can hurt a small or large part of the brain. It is a threat to life and needs emergency care.

The Brain Damage to the brain may be in one area or a larger region. Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

The injury may be from any object or outside force, such as:

• A fall, which could cause a piece of the skull to break off and enter the brain
• A motor vehicle accident
• A gunshot
• A stab wound
• A sports injury
• Abuse, such as being struck on the head with an object

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

• Having health problems that increase the risk of falls
• Alcohol use disorder
• Substance use disorder
• Being in a violent setting
• Playing high impact sports
• Being in a motor vehicle accident

Symptoms

The problems a person may have depend on what caused the injury and how severe it is. Some problems may be:

• Heavy bleeding from the head
• Bleeding from the ears
• Problems breathing
• Seizure
• Loss of bowel and bladder function
• Problems moving
• Loss of feeling in the limbs
• Loss of consciousness

Diagnosis

The doctor will examine your injury in the emergency room. This is often enough to make the diagnosis. Life-saving treatment may be given at this time.

When the person is stable, images may be taken to look for damage in the brain and skull. This can be done with:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI scan (only used when the penetrating object is not made of metal)

Treatment

Treatment depends on:

• How severe the injury is
• The parts of the brain that were hurt
• The symptoms the person is having

Prevention

Most penetrating brain injuries are due to accidents that cannot be prevented.

Healthy bones and muscles may help prevent injuries from falls. This may be done through diet and exercise.