The role of prophylactic anticonvulsants in moderate to severe head injury.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Post-traumatic seizures cause secondary brain injury, contributing to morbidity and mortality after traumatic brain injury. Seizure activity may be undetectable if the patient is paralysed and ventilated.

AIMS:

The effect of prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy on the prevention of seizures after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury was studied.

METHODS:

A structured systematic literature review was performed.

RESULTS:

There may be a place for prophylactic anticonvulsants in the prophylaxis of early post-traumatic seizures.

CONCLUSION:

Further randomised controlled trials are needed to firmly establish the benefits of prophylactic anticonvulsants.

• Authors: Arshad Ali Khan, Ashis Banerjee
• Journal: International journal of emergency medicine (Int J Emerg Med) Vol. 3 Issue 3 Pg. 187-91 (Jul 22 2010) ISSN: 1865-1380 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21031044 (Publication Type: Journal Article)