ABPN Brain Injury Medicine study plan

Map the gross and microscopic anatomy of the brain and cranial vault, labeling structures on blank diagrams from memory

Trace the neuropathologic cascade of traumatic axonal injury, contusion, and hemorrhage, writing out each mechanism in sequence

Differentiate primary from secondary injury cascades (excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, edema, inflammation) in a comparison table

Explain cerebrovascular autoregulation and the blood-brain barrier in the context of injury

Compare focal vs diffuse injury pathology, including contusion, diffuse axonal injury, and hypoxic-ischemic patterns

Summarize epidemiologic burden, incidence, and high-risk populations for TBI and stroke

List primary prevention strategies and injury mechanisms across age groups and causes

Describe biomechanics of acceleration-deceleration and blast injury

Outline the components of the clinical interview and neurologic exam specific to brain injury assessment

Interpret Glasgow Coma Scale and other severity scales and apply them to vignettes

Select appropriate neuroimaging modalities and explain what each detects acutely vs chronically

Describe indications and limitations of neuropsychological testing and bedside cognitive screening

Sequence acute stabilization priorities including airway, hemodynamics, and intracranial pressure targets

Explain indications, mechanisms, and monitoring for hyperosmolar therapy, sedation, and temperature control

Identify surgical indications for decompressive craniectomy and hematoma evacuation

Recognize and manage early secondary complications such as seizures, hyponatremia, and fever

Design a phased neurorehabilitation plan from acute through community reintegration

Match therapeutic interventions to impairment domains (mobility, ADLs, speech, cognition)

Explain neuroplasticity principles and how they drive rehabilitation dosing and intensity

Describe interdisciplinary team roles and goal-setting frameworks in rehabilitation

Differentiate post-injury cognitive deficits by domain and describe compensatory strategies for each

Classify common neuropsychiatric sequelae and outline nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches

Explain behavioral dysregulation, agitation, and disorders of consciousness management principles

Apply family and caregiver education and support strategies

List and explain prevention and management of common medical complications across systems

Describe spasticity, heterotopic ossification, and contracture management options

Explain endocrine, autonomic, and sleep-related complications after brain injury

Outline medication selection considerations and polypharmacy risks in this population

Explain decisional capacity assessment and surrogate decision-making frameworks

Summarize guardianship, disability, and return-to-work/return-to-drive considerations

Integrate all domains through mixed-topic practice vignettes

Identify personal weak areas and build a targeted final-week review list