Traumatic brain injury: assessment and treatment

Many questions regarding the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have arisen in the past few years. The traditional protocols of hyperventilation, steroids, and osmotic diuresis are under scrutiny and alterations in these protocols are being utilized in the management of TBI. In addition to changes in standard treatment, research is continuing on new techniques for the management of secondary cellular injuries associated with TBI. This article examines these present controversies in the management of TBI, and potential future medical therapies in the treatment of TBI.