EFFECTS OF HYPOXIA IN HEAD INJURY

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the effects of hypoxia to the outcome of patients with head injury, we analyzed 223 patients prospectively. We divided patients into two groups; without hypoxia and with hypoxia. Hypoxia was defined as PaO29)(8.9%). Hypoxic insult to the already-injured brain was closely associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Of the 37 patients with hypoxic insult, 23(62.2%) showed poor outcome (vegetative state & dead); only 48 patients(25.8%) without hypoxia showed poor outcome(p<0.001). Among hypoxic group, the incidence of poor outcome was especially high in patients injured in vehicular accidents(55.6%), in low consciousness level(GCS<8) on admission(80.7%), and in intracranial mass lesions(67.9%). Care for the patient with head injuries should start at the scene of injury. 100% oxygen should be administered via a suitable airway during transportation to the hospital, and early positive-pressure ventilation may be necessary.