The presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the system is associated with increased survival rates in those who experience traumatic brain injury (TBI), according to a new study published in the American Journal of Surgery.
“Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality”, says Dr. Binh Minh Nguyen, the study’s lead author. “Several studies have demonstrated neuroprotective effects of cannabinoids. The objective of this study was to establish a relationship between the presence of a positive toxicology screen for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and mortality after TBI.”
After examining 446 individuals – 18.4% of which had THC in their system – it was found that the mortality rate for the THC positive group was just 2.4% (two deaths total), compared with 11.5% (forty two deaths total) in the THC negative group; a 479% decrease.
“After adjusting for differences between the study cohorts on logistic regression, a THC(+) screen was independently associated with survival after TBI”, says Dr. Nguyen, the study’s lead author.
Nguyen concludes; “A positive THC screen is associated with decreased mortality in adult patients sustaining TBI.”
The study can be found by clicking here.
Source: thejointblog.com
