Epidemiology, Classifications, and Prognosis of Severe Craniocerebral Injuries: Computer-Assisted Study of 9038 Cases

Abstract

This computer-assisted clinical analysis was motivated by the increasing frequency of craniocerebral injuries, as well as by the change of types of injuries sustained and improved diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities. This change in the types of injuries resulted from the different nature of the accidents, accompanying environmental damages, and the increase in the higher age categories. The investigation is based on 9038 cases of craniocerebral injuries, treated 1942–1974 in Giessen. Of these 9038 cases, 1970 cases were treated 1942–1952 in the Department of Surgery, University of Giessen and had been described earlier (PIA, 3–7). We also refer to a computer evaluation of the coded statistical data from 3455 cases originating from the Surgical Clinic during 1960–1974 and from 3793 cases originating from the Neurosurgical Clinic from 1953–1974. The material covers a period of 33 years with a partial exception relating to the years 1953–1960. The cases treated at the Department of Surgery were handled on a consultatory basis with the Department of Neurosurgery. The number of cases admitted increased steadily, predominantly 1942–1952, with an increase from 80 cases yearly to 310 cases yearly. The absolute number of more than 500 cases during the period 1960–1974 shows the further increase and a rising tendency.