Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury that can cause brain damage. Usually, TBI results from a jolt, bump or blow to the head. For example, children may hit their head and sustain a head injury while playing contact sports or in a car accident. Experts at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles deliver sophisticated therapies immediately after injury, and also facilitate long-term recovery.
Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment: Why Choose Us
Neurocritical care specialists at Children’s Hospital are part of your care team. Children’s Hospital is home to some of the few doctors in the country with advanced (fellowship) training in neurocritical care and neonatal neurology. Our team has expertise and experience in treating children with TBI, which helps to achieve the best possible outcome for your child.
In mild cases of TBI, such as a concussion, treatment typically involves rest and over-the-counter pain medication. Your child’s doctor will give you instructions to watch for any worsening symptoms, such as headaches or muscle weakness.
For severe TBI, treatment involves emergency care and stabilization, which may include:
- Relieving pressure in the skull: Pressure can be caused by swelling of the brain or bleeding inside the head. Signs of increased pressure include headaches, vomiting, sleepiness, or more severe symptoms if left untreated. In emergencies, neurosurgeons can use different surgical techniques to relieve the pressure.
- Treating fractures: A severe TBI may involve a skull fracture. In some cases, neurosurgeons may need to perform surgery.
- Intensive care: During acute TBI management, your child is closely monitored in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These specialized units have highly trained physicians, nurses and respiratory therapists to care for your child.
About TBI in children
TBI is especially concerning in children because their brains are still developing. Damage can leave lasting effects on neurological, physical and social functioning. When you come to Children’s Hospital, your child receives the best possible care.
Support for children with TBI and their families
Children’s Hospital offers additional services that guide ongoing therapies and provide your family with extra support during recovery.
- Social work: Changes from a traumatic brain injury can impact your entire family. Our social workers provide referrals to helpful community resources, including food and transportation providers, and also offer a caring ear.
- Child Life specialists: These specialists use age-appropriate techniques to help your child understand and cope with the effects of TBI. If appropriate, your child may participate in special activities that make the hospital experience a little more joyful. Learn more about Child Life specialists.
Neurological and neurosurgical services for children
Traumatic brain injury care is one of many ways we help children achieve their full neurologic potential. As one of the nation’s premier pediatric neurological institutes, we offer more of the services your child needs in one program. Find out more about our Neurological Institute.
