ASSESMENT OF CRANIAL NERVE DEFICITS IN ACUTE HEAD INJURY PATIENTS:A PROSPECTIVE STUDY IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Dr Prabhat Kumar; Dr Amit Dagar; Dr Karam Chand Sharma; Dr K B Shankar; Dr Vivek Yadav

Volume : VIII, Issue : I, January - 2019

ASSESMENT OF CRANIAL NERVE DEFICITS IN ACUTE HEAD INJURY PATIENTS:A PROSPECTIVE STUDY IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Dr Prabhat Kumar, Dr Amit Dagar, Dr Karam Chand Sharma, Dr K B Shankar, Dr Vivek Yadav

Abstract :

BACKGROUND:Cranial nerve injury is common with TBI . It may result in significant consequences to the individual , which may be further compounded by the deficits caused by cortical injury.

METHODS: 300 patients with head injury were studied. Neurological and radiological examinations were performed . Patients were followed up for 6 months. Four check–ups were conducted during this period; on day 7, 1^st,3^rd and 6^th month.

RESULTS: Out of 300 patients evaluated with head injury , 51 had cranial nerve palsies .Most common age group affected was third decade .RTA was the most common injury mode .Facial nerve was the most common and lower cranial nerves were the least commonly affected.

CONCLUSION: Cranial nerve injury is common with traumatic ain injury .All nerves achieve some amount of functional recovery with time. In patients with TBI, it is essential to identify cranial nerve injuries using physical examination and ancillary tests.