How are Louisiana Accident Brain Injuries Diagnosed and Treated?

Louisiana Jones Act seamen face danger on the job every day, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often the result of accidents on fishing vessels, oilrigs, barges and tugs. When this type of injury is sustained, diagnosis and treatment are paramount in successful recovery.

Neurologists use several tools to diagnose TBI:

• Neurological examination: the first step in diagnosis, including a physical examination.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A quick, accurate scan of the brain.
• Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI): shows more detail than a CT scan, and is used in determining long-term outcomes.
• X-rays: rarely used, but still considered a tool.
• Angiography: sometimes used in a penetrating head injury to see if blood vessels are damaged.
• Functional imaging: looks at blood flow in the brain.
• Electroencephalography: occasionally used, this records the electrical activity of the brain.
• Neuropsychological assessment: a series of cognitive tests to determine how the brain is functioning.

Once the neurologist has completed the tests needed to diagnose the patient, treatment can begin. Treatment is based on the type and severity of injury and can range from observation to surgery.

Medical specialists refer to the "golden hour" following the injury, which can be classified as mild, moderate or severe. Anyone suffering a blow to the head should be checked out and treated, if necessary, within the first hour following the injury to prevent complications and give the most effective treatment.

If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury and you have questions, the Louisiana maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm will put our 50-plus years of maritime law experience to work for you. Don't hesitate to call us.