Hello!

What is the difference between a TBI and an ABI brain injury?


Want more real mum questions sent to you?

You'll need to check this email to complete your signup.
  • My friend runs a support group Families4Families a ABI support network
    http://families4families.org.au


  • There are organisations that offer support, information and advocacy in each state, in SA its the Brain Injury Network of South Australia, BINSA. http://www.binsa.org/


  • Thanks, I had no idea what the difference was.


  • Sometimes the difference is just terminology. The terms in many cases are used interchangeably
    ABI is an Aquired Brain injury, an injury to the brain (not including birthing injuries).

    TBI is a Traumatic Brain Injury…. An injury caused by trauma to the head.

    My sister had an ABI when she was in a car accident, it could have also been termed as a TBI since her head hit the side of the car as the car slid into a tree.

    Someone who has been king hit …that would be traumatic.

    Someone who is a drowning survivor ( was revived but had a substantial amount of time without oxygen) would be classified as ABI.

    Footballer with multiple concussions would probably be ABI.

    Hope that helps.


  • moms to the rescue again and wonderful answers.


  • A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY- is an injury to the brain caused by an external force.
    Common causes can include gunshot wounds, motor vehicles crashes, assaults or by falling and striking your head.

    A ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY- is an injury to the brain which is not hereditary, congenital, degenerative or induced by birth trauma.
    One cause would be a loss of oxygen to the brain or a stroke.

    Got this from google hope it helps :)


  • Tbi brain injury is caused by external factors such as a car crash or a blow to the head. Abi is caused more by internal factors such as disease, strokes, drug use, infections etc.


Post your reply
Add a photo
Your MoM account


Lost your password?

Enter your email and a password below to post your answer and join MoM:

↥ Back to top

Thanks For Your Star Rating!

Would you like to add a written rating or just a star rating?

Write A Rating Just A Star Rating
Join