What is base of skull fracture?

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A basilar skull fracture, or skull base fracture, is a type of traumatic head injury that involves a break in at least one of the bones at the base of the skull. The base of the skull is a complex structure that forms the floor of the cranial cavity and separates the brain from the head and neck.

What are the signs and symptoms of skull base fracture?

Symptoms of skull fractures

bleeding from the wound caused by the trauma, near the location of the trauma, or around the eyes, ears, and nose.
bruising around the trauma site, under the eyes in a condition known as raccoon eyes, or behind the ears as in a Battle’s sign.
severe pain at the trauma site.

What is base fracture?

Basilar fractures of the skull, also known as base of skull fractures, are a common form of skull fracture, particularly in the setting of severe traumatic head injury, and involve the base of the skull. They may occur in isolation or often in continuity with skull vault (calvarial) fractures or facial fractures.

What is skull base?

The skull base consists of several bones that form the bottom of the head and the bony ridge behind the eyes and nose. Many different kinds of tumors can grow in this area. They are more likely to cause symptoms and be diagnosed when they grow large enough to put pressure on the brain.

What is a skull fracture called?

A skull fracture is a type of head injury. It is a break in the skull bone. It may also be called a traumatic brain injury or TBI. A mild break may cause few problems and heal over time.

How is a skull fracture treated?

For most skull fractures, which are linear fractures, surgical intervention is not needed. Instead, physicians prescribe medication to control pain and maintain close observation in the hospital.

What is an occipital fracture?

Occipital condyle fractures are traumatic injuries that involve articulation between the base of the skull and the cervical spine.

What are the two bones at the base of your skull called?

The posterior skull base consists of primarily the occipital bone, with contributions from the sphenoid and temporal bones. The basal portion of the occipital bone (the basiocciput) and the basisphenoid form the anterior portion of the posterior skull base. These 2 regions combine to form the midline clivus.