Severity of Head Injuries Based on Computed Tomography in Patients Involved in Road Traffic Accidents in Taif, Saudi Arabia

Head trauma now represents a major cause of death or disability among young Saudi population, it is claimed that it is more common than ever. Radiographs are now replaced by computed tomography (CT) scanning because of its superiority in cases of head and facial imaging. Aim of the study This study aim to assess the pattern of cranial and facial fractures on CT in head of injured patients following Road Traffic Accident ( RTA). Study Methods This study was done at King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital (KASH), Taif City, Saudi Arabia during the period from Jan to March 2014. Data collected from the medical records of 40 patients by using chick list. Results From 40 CT scan reports of brain and facial bone there were 34 (85 %) male and 6 (15 %) female. Majority of injuries were in the brain (80 %), while only (20 %) were in the skull. Depressed skull fractures represent highest percentage (25 %) among head injuries. Conclusion The biggest group of ages was 18-25 year (40 %) in this study, and this can be justified by the lack of experience and excess speed. The majority of injuries were in the brain (80 %). Haemorrhage represent the highest percentage (17.5 %), followed by (Rt) temporal bone fracture (12.5 %), (Lt) frontal regions subgaleal hematoma (10 %). The Speeding and not wearing a seat belt were the highest two causes of accidents in Taif City (30 % each).