Diagnostic Algorithm in Patients With Minor Head Injury
Diagnostic Algorithm in Patients With Minor Head Injury
The objective of this prospective study is to evaluate the reliability of plain x-rays
 vs.cranial computed tomography as a screening method for skull fractures and its prognostic
 value for intracranial bleeding (ICB).
In a consecutive patients series of about 12500, blunt head injuries were observed (during a
 16 month period), in a prospective analysis.

 Based on a retrospective study, we created a checklist of individual patients data which was
 completed for each patient.

 In accordance with the institutions guidelines all patients with blunt head injury received
 plain skull x-ray in 2 plains and additional cranial CT-scan (CCT) in case of fracture or
 neurological symptoms. We developed also an diagnostic algorithm consisting of anamnestical
 data and clinical signs and symptoms to define these risk factors and to catch all patients
 with minor head injury who are at risk to develop intracranial bleeding.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  head injury, nausea, vomiting

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  no head injury