Can Someone Fully Recover from TBI?
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) range from mild to severe. While those with mild to moderate TBIs usually fully recover, that is not necessarily the case with severe TBI victims. However, every situation is unique and some severe TBI victims do fully recover.
There is no way to predict whether an individual will recover right after the accident. It can take months before the prognosis becomes clear, as much depends on factors that can change. Even when full recovery does occur, it is a long, slow process.
A Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer at Ellis Injury Law will hold those responsible for the TBI liable and help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injury and long-term care needs.
Severe TBI recovery process
By definition, a severe TBI always involves loss of consciousness. How long the person is unconscious may affect the odds of their recovery. There are various levels of unconsciousness, and it is critical to determine the patient’s state of awareness. Although someone who is unconscious for months is unlikely to fully recover, they may recover to a certain degree.
If the person regains consciousness, they will need to undergo extensive rehabilitation.
Typical recovery stages
A patient with a severe TBI generally passes through several stages if they are to recover. These are:
- Coma –complete unconsciousness
- Vegetative state –may begin opening eyes, but still unconscious
- Minimal consciousness –some awareness exhibited
- Minimal consciousness emergence –ability to communicate on a basic level
- Post-traumatic confusion –may not form new memories, recognize people, or remember details. They do not recall the accident or know where they are.
Some people may pass the various stages relatively quickly. Others may stay at one stage and not improve. As a general rule, passing from a coma or vegetative state to minimal consciousness denotes a more favorable outcome.
Treatment and rehabilitation
The medical team overseeing TBI care consists of surgeons, critical care doctors, and nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, neurologists, and more. Once the patient moves on to rehabilitation, the team may consist of:
- Physical therapists
- Speech therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Neuropsychologists
- Psychologists
- Social workers
Those with severe TBI may require even more specialized rehabilitation. Regular testing during rehabilitation assesses injury level and any progress.
A traumatic brain injury attorney knows the costs of rehabilitation and long-term care are staggering. If the person does not fully recover, they may need nursing home or at-home care, medical equipment, and home modifications. If the insurance company does not agree to a reasonable settlement meeting the TBI’s victims anticipated needs, we do not hesitate to take the matter to trial.
Contact a Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer
A TBI changes your life and that of your family. If you or someone you know suffered a TBI because of another party’s negligence, you need the services of the Los Angeles accident lawyers at Ellis Injury Law. Submit our online form to arrange a free consultation, or call or text us 24/7.
All work is done on a contingency basis. You pay no fee unless you receive compensation.