Skull Fractures

What are Skull Fractures?

A skull fracture occurs when a break or crack appears in the cranial bones. This injury is usually the result of trauma to the head, such as falls, accidents, or physical assaults. While some skull fractures are minor and heal on their own, others may be severe and lead to complications like brain injury, bleeding, or infection.

Types of Skull Fractures

Skull fractures are classified based on their appearance, location, and associated complications:

• Linear Fractures: The most common type, appearing as a simple break in the bone without movement of the fractured pieces. These are usually less severe.

• Depressed Fractures: Occur when part of the skull is pushed inward, potentially damaging the brain tissue underneath.

• Basilar Fractures: These involve a break in the bones at the base of the skull and are associated with specific signs like bruising around the eyes (raccoon eyes) or behind the ears (Battle’s sign).

• Diastatic Fractures: Common in infants and young children, these occur along the suture lines of the skull and may widen these natural joints.

• Compound Fractures: Involves a break in the skin, increasing the risk of infection as the fracture communicates with the external environment.

Symptoms of Skull Fractures

The symptoms of a skull fracture depend on its type and severity. Common signs include:

• Visible swelling or deformity of the head

• Bruising around the eyes or behind the ears

• Bleeding from the nose, ears, or wound on the head

• Clear fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) leaking from the ears or nose

• Persistent headache

• Loss of consciousness or confusion

• Seizures

• Nausea or vomiting

• Difficulty with balance, vision, or hearing

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosis: Skull fractures are typically diagnosed through:

• Physical Examination: Identifying external signs of trauma and neurological impairment.

• Imaging:

  • CT Scan: The preferred method for visualising skull fractures and detecting associated brain injuries.

  • X-rays: May be used in some cases, although less detailed than a CT scan.

Treatment: The treatment of skull fractures depends on the type and severity of the injury:

1. Observation:

   • Minor linear fractures without complications often require monitoring to ensure proper healing.

2. Surgical Intervention:

   • Required for depressed fractures, significant bleeding, or when cerebrospinal fluid leaks need repair.

   • Surgery may involve lifting depressed bone fragments or addressing associated brain injuries.

3. Medications:

   • Pain management with analgesics.

   • Antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, especially in compound fractures.

   • Anti-seizure medications if seizures are a risk or have occurred.

4. Supportive Care:

   • Monitoring in a hospital for severe cases.

   • Rehabilitation therapy for any neurological deficits that result from the injury.

Conclusion

While some skull fractures heal without complications, others require urgent medical intervention to prevent serious outcomes. If you or your loved one experiences a head injury with concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. At the Singapore Brain Spine Nerves Center, our team of specialists provides expert care for traumatic brain injuries, ensuring a tailored approach for every patient. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery and quality of life. Visit us for compassionate and comprehensive care.