Signs of Skull fracture (broken bone)

Description

A break in one or more of the bones in the skull caused by a head injury. The injury usually results from blunt or penetrating trauma (fall, motor vehicle accident). The amount of force required to break the bone frequently damages the underlying brain. The broken bone fragments can also damage the underlying brain or lacerate blood vessels causing bleeding in the brain. Fractures of the bone in the base of the skull can result in leaking of cerebrospinal fluid.

Symptoms

Scalp swelling, scalp tenderness, bleeding from ears, bruising behind the ears or under the eyes, unequal pupils, confusion, convulsions, difficulties with balance, drainage of clear fluid from ears or nose, excessive sleepiness, headache, loss of consciousness, nausea, restlessness, irritability, slurred speech, visual disturbances, vomiting.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan is done to identify the fracture and any associated brain injury.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
CT Scan

Treatment

Isolated fractures without an associated brain injury usually do not require specific treatment. Fractures that are displaced and pushed downward into the cranium require surgery. Antibiotics to prevent infection are sometimes prescribed.