June 10, 2009

Print this page

A treatment strategy for people on blood thinners who hit their heads is saving lives at Beaumont Hospital, in Royal Oak, according to recent research.

For the 105 patients treated under a new protocol in the Emergency Center at Royal Oak, the time to diagnose bleeding in the brain as a result of a head bump was cut in half, treatment was started in one-third of the previous time and the death rate was reduced from 40 percent to 11 percent.

The protocol includes a rapid evaluation, a CT scan, blood transfusion and a dose of vitamin K, which helps blood clot.

"These seem like simple steps, but when combined, they become a powerful force that saves lives," says Greg Howells, M.D., director of Trauma Surgery. "For people on blood thinners, these early interventions are critical."

Learn more about how Beaumont's treatment strategies can save lives.