Polytrauma

Maj Hemstad
Polytrauma occurs when a person experiences injuries to multiple body parts and organ systems as the result of a single traumatic event. Dr. Freeman, can you tell us more about polytrauma injuries?

Dr. Freeman
Absolutely, Dr. Hemstad. Blast-related events, motor vehicle collisions, and serious falls are the kinds of traumatic events that can cause polytrauma. Outcomes and treatment vary widely depending upon which organ systems and body parts are injured and how severely each is affected.

Some common injuries associated with severe TBI and polytrauma include loss of one or more limbs, spinal cord injuries, burns, and auditory and visual damage. Additionally, behavioral conditions, such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression, may co-occur with TBI and polytrauma. Many of these injuries and conditions require intense treatment and rehabilitation, and in some cases, cause permanent disability.