Head trauma - You don't have to be knocked out and you can still be talking. But, no matter how innocuous your injury, you may still have underlying brain damage which if not recognized and managed within hours can result in devastating complications

Natasha Richardson's tragic death from a fall at a ski resort brings Talk and Die Syndrome to the forefront. Waiting for mental changes to occur in simple head trauma may be too late!

Cognizant of the fact that this type of injury takes a toll on society, it behooves high-risk public sports venues, in combination with the medical establishment, to institute two simple procedures for participants in any form of lessons related to high-risk sports (1) mandatory medical evaluation for all recognized head trauma and (2) mandatory helmet use.

At the same time, the medical establishment needs to improve its own performance which includes the availability of rapid Head CT scanning followed by either rapid decompression of the intracranial bleed at the facility where the diagnosis is made or the capability of rapid evacuation to a facility with neurosurgical capability.

There is no doubt that these two procedures could make a difference in creating A Healthier World and probably would have prevented the untimely death of Natasha Richardson.

Perhaps someday when you show up at your nearest ski resort with your skis and sun protection lotion you'll have to also wear a helmet - just like your friends taking lessons and your snowboard buddies.

Babbledoc occasionally comments on important medical issues. You can reach him at [email protected]