Orthopedic prognosis of brain-injured adults. Part I.

In a retrospective study of 121 patients who have sustained closed head injury, the levels of functional return are reviewed in terms of factors of prognostic value. These factors are age, coma duration and presence of decerebration. Decerebration, when it resolves early, can be compatible with a good functional outcome. The majority of patients who survive head injury make substantial neurologic recovery. Almost 50% of the patients have a good neurologic recovery. About two-thirds of the patients become ambulatory and capable of self-care activities.