Skull fracture
Skull Fracture
A skull fracture (/skʌl 'fræk.tʃər/) is a break in one or more of the eight bones that form the cranial portion of the skull, usually occurring as a result of blunt force trauma.
Etymology
The term "skull fracture" is derived from the Old Norse word "skalli" meaning "bald", and the Latin word "fractura" meaning "a breach, break, cleft".
Types of Skull Fractures
There are four major types of skull fractures, which include:
- Linear skull fracture: This is the most common type of skull fracture. It involves a break in the bone but does not move the bone.
- Depressed skull fracture: This type of fracture involves a part of the skull being pushed inward towards the brain.
- Diastatic skull fracture: These fractures occur along the suture lines in the skull. The force of the injury can cause the normal suture lines to widen.
- Basilar skull fracture: This is the most serious type of skull fracture and involves a break in the bone at the base of the skull.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a skull fracture can include:
- Pain and swelling at the site of the injury
- Bleeding from the wound, ears, nose, or around the eyes
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Vision problems
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a skull fracture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI.
Treatment
Treatment for a skull fracture depends on the type of fracture and the severity of the injury. It may include observation, surgery to repair the fracture, or treatment for any underlying brain injury.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Skull fracture
- Wikipedia's article - Skull fracture
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