While some brain injuries immediately show direct symptoms, others can have delayed symptoms or signs that can point to a variety of less severe medical conditions. If someone is injured in a traumatic event, such as a car accident, doctors will need to properly diagnose the traumatic brain injury to provide the right care to the patient.
Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)
The Glasgow Coma Scale is a 15-point scale that helps a doctor or medical personnel responder initially assess the severity of a brain injury by testing three functions of a patient:
-
Ability to speak
-
Ability to open eyes
-
Ability to move (eyes and limbs)
A patient is given a number between three and 15; the higher the number, the less severe the injury. When determining the patient’s TBI severity, doctors will look at this score, as well as the person’s level of consciousness and memory loss.
“Just tell us what happened—we’ll help from there.”
- Free Consultation
- A real person who listens to your story
- No upfront costs to get started
- Clear next steps you can understand
Mild TBI
-
The GCS was 13-15
-
The person was conscious the entire time or unconscious for less than 30 minutes
-
Memory loss lasted less than 24 hours
Moderate TBI
-
The GCS was 9-12
-
The person was unconscious for more than 30 minutes and up to 24 hours
-
Memory loss lasted anywhere between 24 hours and 7 days
“We’re here when things feel overwhelming.”
- No pressure—just honest guidance
- We take the time to get it right
- We fight for what’s fair, not quick
- We stay with you from start to finish
Severe TBI
-
The GCS was 8 or lower
-
The person was unconscious for more than 24 hours
-
Memory loss lasted more than 7 days
Imaging Testing
In addition, a medical provider can also use a variety of special imaging testing to properly diagnose the physical damage to the brain:
-
Computerized Tomography (CT Scan). A type of scan that takes X-rays from many angles to create a complete picture of the brain, quickly showing if there is any bleeding, bruising, or other damage.
-
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The use of magnets and radio waves to produce more detailed images than CT scans
-
Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Monitoring. A probe is inserted into the skull to monitor pressure and swelling caused by a TBI
After an accident, doctors are required to take the steps necessary to properly diagnose a TBI. Failing to properly diagnose this type of injury can lead to more devastating results.
If you suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident, you need immediate legal representation. The person who caused your accident should be held liable for the physical and emotional injuries that you sustained. Our team of legal advocates is here to put you first and fight hard for your financial recovery.
Contact Fowler Helsel Vogt at (559) 283-8091 to schedule your free case review.
“Start with a real conversation. We’ll take this on with you.”
- We handle the paperwork & phone calls
- We explain everything in plain language
- We move things forward while you recover
- We’re easy to reach when you need us
