Systemic complications of traumatic brain injury

Purpose of review Increased understanding of the pathophysiology in traumatic brain injury (TBI) has resulted in the development of core physiological targets and therapies to preserve cerebral oxygenation, and in doing so prevent secondary insult. This review addresses the many systemic complications of TBI that make achieving these targets challenging and can influence outcome. Recent findings There are a wide range of systemic complications following TBI. Complications involve the cardiovascular, respiratory, immunological, haematological and endocrinological systems amongst others, and can influence early management and long-term outcomes. Summary Effective management of TBI should go beyond formulaic-based pursuit of physiological targets and requires a detailed understanding of the multisystem response of the body.