TBI MEDICAL INFORMATION
What research is being done?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) conducts TBI research in its laboratories at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and also supports TBI research through grants to major medical institutions across the country. This research involves studies in the laboratory and in clinical settings to better understand TBI and the biological mechanisms underlying damage to the brain. This research will allow scientists to develop strategies and interventions to limit the primary and secondary brain damage that occurs within days of a head trauma, and to devise therapies to treat brain injury and improve long-term recovery of function.
Taser Stun Guns Can Cause Brain Injury
MONDAY, March 16 -- Taser stun guns, used by some police forces, can cause brain-related problems such as seizures, according to a Canadian study.
Researchers analyzed a case involving a police officer in his 30s who was mistakenly hit in the upper back and head by two Taser barbs meant for a suspect. After he was hit, the officer collapsed and lost consciousness. He stopped breathing, his eyes rolled forward, he foamed at the mouth, and his arms and legs jerked for about one minute. After regaining consciousness, the officer was confused for many minutes.
These symptoms are different from the usual temporary incapacitation effects caused by Tasers, noted Dr. Richard Wennberg and colleagues at Toronto Western Hospital and the University of Toronto.
A neurological exam of the officer after the incident revealed mild traumatic brain injury and post-concussion syndrome related to head impact, either from the Taser shot or the fall to the ground during his seizure.