Ahead of World Head Injury Awareness Day, marked annually on March 20, experts from Kauvery Hospital highlighted the importance of road safety in preventing accidents and access to Level I trauma care.
Early treatment at a Level I Trauma Care Centre, which represents the highest level of emergency care, during the ‘golden hour’ can significantly improve survival and reduce disability in patients with severe head injuries, experts said.
Addressing the media, Krish Sridhar, Group Mentor — Neurosciences and Director, Institute of Brain & Spine, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, said that the first step is prevention. “Many people continue to have a ‘not me’ attitude, assuming they will not be involved in road accidents. Wearing a helmet or seat belt should be a priority. There needs to be a shift in mindset,” he noted, adding that a fully equipped trauma centre can further reduce harm, as time is critical.
K. Shankar, Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, speaking as the chief guest at the event, said that road accidents are on the rise and motorists often skip rules and stressed that rules must be followed.
Ranganathan Jothi, Chief Brain & Spine Surgeon and Director of Neurosciences, Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, said, “Many serious head injuries require urgent neurosurgical intervention. Immediate access to neurosurgical expertise, advanced imaging and intensive care all available in a Level I Trauma Care Centre can make the difference between life and death or between full recovery and long-term disability.”
