Optimising the management of severe Traumatic Brain Injury in the military maritime environment

Abstract

Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (sTBI) is a devastating cause of morbidity and mortality, especially among those aged less than 45 years. Advances in clinical practice continue to focus on preventing primary injury through developing ballistic head and eye protection, and through minimising secondary brain injury (secondary prevention). Managing sTBI is challenging in well-developed, well-resourced healthcare systems. Achieving management aims in the military maritime environment poses even greater challenges. Strategies for the management of sTBI in the maritime environment should be in keeping with current best evidence. Provision of specialist interventions for sTBI in military maritime environments may require alternative approaches matched to the skills of the staff and environmental restrictions.