Post-traumatic seizures Flashcards
When do post-traumatic seizures occur?
usually in more severe traumatic brain injury
How are post-traumatic seizures sometimes managed?
AEDs are often used prophylactically
What intervention is key for post-traumatic seizures?
CT head
What should be done if haematoma is seen on head CT post trauma?
contact a neurosurgeon
What should you do for the management of a patient with post-traumatic seizures if there is no haematoma on head CT?
hourly neuro obs and reassess if reduced GCS
What are 3 types of traumatic brain injury which increase the risk of seizure significantly?
- Depressed skull fracture
- Penetrating injury
- Intracranial haemorrhage
Is the risk of seizures increased with mild brain injury?
no - not if loss of consciousness or post-traumatic amnesia <30 min
When can patients present with epilepsy following truama?
can occur sometimes years after the event
What are 2 types of perinatal brain injury which can cause early-onset epilepsy?
- Perventricular leukomalacia
- Brain haemorrhage associated with prematurity and fetal hypoxia
What proportion of cases of brain surgery is followed by seizures?
up to 17%
Is prophylactic anticonvulsant use after surgery recommended?
no