Brain injury

Acquired brain injuries (ABIs) can be categorized as traumatic or non-traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), sub-classified as either open or closed TBIs, depending on whether there is a fracture of the skull or a breach of the dura mater, are typically caused by a physical impact such as blunt trauma or a fall. Non-TBIs can be caused by cerebrovascular events, infections, or chemical factors. This chapter predominantly focuses on TBIs, exploring techniques to measure their extent, such as the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), and the aetiology of TBIs. Moreover, the long-term effects of TBIs are explored, such as anxiety disorders which often present themselves in their aftermath and the likelihood for TBI-induced personality change. The associated effects of non-TBIs are then examined, specifically with reference to anoxic brain injuries and those induced by drugs or alcohol.