What is TBI?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is defined as a blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. TBI can result when the head suddenly and violently hits an object, or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. Symptoms of a TBI can be mild, moderate or severe, depending on the extent of damage to the brain. Mild cases (mild traumatic brain injury, or mTBI) may result in a brief change in mental state or consciousness, while severe cases may result in extended periods of unconsciousness, coma or even death. (American Association of Neurological Surgeon)
Military-Related Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is recognized as the signature injury of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and has emerged as a significant challenge for the Department of Defense. According to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, more than 339,000 service members have been diagnosed with TBI since the year 2000. The extent of injury is very often hard to discern, making field diagnosis and medical treatment problematic.
