Healing time
It is not generally possible to say how long it takes for a basal skull fracture to heal completely. The course of this injury depends very much on what it looks like exactly. In the case of a simple basal skull fracture, in which the fragments are not shifted against each other and in which there are no accompanying injuries, those affected can usually return to normal and participate in life without restrictions after a few days to a few weeks. In such cases an operation is normally not necessary, but a stay in hospital is necessary, since serious complications that may occur can be directly recognized and treated.
Complicated skull base fracture
In the case of complicated fractures of the skull base, i.e. when individual fragments are shifted against each other or bone splinters have occurred, surgery is always recommended. In this operation the bone fragments are brought back into their correct position and stabilized with aids such as screws, plates and wires. This requires a longer stay in hospital, as patients must be monitored after the operation to rule out complications such as bleeding. Usually the stay is a few days to weeks. In addition, a rest period of a few weeks is necessary until full recovery, as this is a major procedure that is a strain on the body.
Accompanying Violations
Accompanying injuries can include a broken nose, but nerve injuries are also more common in a skull base fracture. If the nose is affected, surgery is recommended. In most cases, this injury is accompanied by loss of the ability to smell, which sometimes cannot be repaired even after the operation.
More often, however, the regeneration of the olfactory cells takes a long time, which is why an exact statement can only be made after a few weeks. Due to the impairment of the olfactory function, the sense of taste is also limited. If the nerve cords are injured by a fracture of the base of the skull, sensitivity disorders or paralysis can occur, depending on which nerve was injured.
Since nerves grow back very slowly, it often takes several weeks before they can regain their original function. In addition, this often requires a consistent physiotherapy or rehabilitation period. Furthermore, hearing disorders are often accompanying injuries, especially when the fracture line runs through the inner ear.
Not only the hearing but also the sense of balance is affected. Surgery is also performed here. In severe cases, the brain may be involved.
In particular, cells are destroyed by bleeding and the associated increase in intracranial pressure. Rapid relief through pressure reduction is the main focus here, as otherwise irreversible damage such as paralysis, sensitivity disorders and cognitive limitations can occur.
