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Why choose Geisinger for traumatic brain injury care?

Neurotrauma covers injuries to the brain, spine and nerves, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion and spinal cord injury. Geisinger operates a Level I trauma center, 4 Level II trauma centers and a Level II pediatric trauma center, all with 24/7 emergency care. Geisinger Life Flight® teams stand ready to transfer patients to the right facility, and a highly trained neurosurgeon is available within 30 minutes of a trauma alert.

Recovery doesn't end in the emergency room. Many people need follow-up care for symptoms such as headaches, memory changes, pain and movement difficulties. Specialists across neurology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation work together to support recovery and manage long-term effects.

Concussion evaluation and management is also available, including care for sports-related injuries. 

If you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.

Treatments and services we offer

Related specialties

FAQs

What’s neurotrauma?

Neurotrauma refers to injuries affecting the brain, spine and nerves. These injuries range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury.

What’s a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden impact, jolt or penetrating injury disrupts normal brain function. TBIs range from mild to severe injuries that affect consciousness, memory and movement. If you suspect a TBI, see a doctor right away.

What are common TBI symptoms?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury and can include:

  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Memory problems or confusion
  • Difficuty concentrating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Sleep changes
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • In severe cases, loss of consciousness

If you or someone you know has symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention right away.

What other injuries are considered neurotrauma?

Neurotrauma includes a range of injuries affecting the brain, spine and nerves. These may include:

  • Concussions
  • Craniofacial injuries
  • Injury to the major blood vessels supplying the brain
  • Peripheral nerve injuries
  • Skull fractures
  • Spinal column injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Sports-related injuries

Is a concussion a TBI?

Yes. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. It's often considered a mild form of TBI, but it can still have serious effects — a doctor should evaluate any concussion or head injury, even if symptoms seem mild.

Traumatic brain injury care at Geisinger

From emergency treatment to long-term recovery, traumatic brain injury specialists coordinate your care every step of the way. We offer:

  • 24/7 emergency care: Neurosurgical teams at trauma centers in central and northeastern Pennsylvania are ready to respond to serious injuries affecting the brain, spine and nerves.
  • Coordinated follow-up care: Your care team includes specialists across neurology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation working together toward your recovery.
  • Concussion management: Specialists evaluate and treat concussion symptoms — including sports-related injuries — and provide return-to-play guidance.