THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF BRAIN INJURY - UNDERSTANDING INNOVATIVE DRUG THERAPIES

The advancement of acute care for persons with brain injury is predica ted on the further clarification of the mechanical and biochemical pro cesses that are begun at the time of the Injury. Attempts to enhance s urvival and functional outcome have led to cerebral perfusion and intr acranial pressure management techniques. In addition, novel neuroprote ctive pharmacotherapeutic strategies have been borne from an ever grow ing knowledge of the degradative biochemical injury that occurs subseq uent to the initial insult. The link between the acute and rehabilitat ion phases of care continues to grow closer, thus compelling the rehab ilitationist to be aware of the potential effect these processes and t reatments have on outcome.