Diagnostic terminology of head injuries--related to severity

The 10th revision of ICD (International Classification of Diseases and Injuries, WHO) is now being prepared. Before its codifying starts the contents must be revised to fulfil the requirements of modern clinical medicine. A modified diagnostic severity graded classification on the part of head injuries Chapter XVII is suggested here. More attention is now being paid to the intracranial injuries. An attempt to classify the severity of conscious disturbances is also made. The severity grading of AIS-76, -80, and -85 is discussed and partly used. In view of the worldwide medical importance of ICD for facilitating clinical comparisons and improved management it is urgent to extend the basis of knowledge in an accurate diagnostic terminology. This will facilitate and shorten the time necessary for the daily differential diagnostic and prognostic work.