Neuroimaging in head injury.

This article reviews the neuroradiologic manifestations of acute nonpenetrating head injury. The pathophysiology of the various types of neurotrauma is correlated with the imaging features. Computed tomography (CT) remains the initial imaging modality of choice, allowing rapid diagnosis of the majority of injuries. Magnetic resonance imaging is useful in the subacute and chronic stages (particularly in a patient whose initial CT scan is unremarkable) to assess brainstem and white matter shearing injuries.