Study on Repeat CT Scans in the Traumatic Brain Injury Management

Abstract

Introduction: In recent trauma practice, a Computed Tomography (CT) scan is the initial study of choice to regulate the type, extent and severity of traumatic brain injury as well as to control the management protocol. There are no guidelines on the necessity of repeat CT scan. Objective: Our main aim in this present study was to determine whether serial CT scans demonstrated momentous change from the findings in the first CT scan and whether repeat scans had influence on management possibilities. Methodology: This cross sectional study was carried out at Department of Neurosurgery, Rangpur Medical College Hospital, from January 2016 to June 2017 where 80 patients’ data were evaluated on the basis of their history, clinical examination. On admission, a detailed history of the illness was taken from the patient or attendant, thorough neurological and general examinations were carried out, and findings of the performed investigations were recorded. On admission GCS were recorded. Result: In the study, out of all patients of group I maximum 40% patients belonged to 25 to 34 years age range and in group II maximum 35% belonged to 25 to 34 years age group. Also group I, 95% were male and 5% were female and in group II, 92.5% were male and 7.5% were female. Conclusion: From our result, we can conclude that for detecting new lesions or enlargement of existing lesions in traumatic brain injury repeat CT scans were found to be of significance which results in changing of management in a substantial percentage of patients.