{"id":"71e1ada1-edc9-4654-aec3-ae3815d3758e","slug":"bolt-from-the-blue-basal-ganglion-bleed-following-lightning-strike","title":"Bolt from the blue: Basal ganglion bleed following lightning strike","authors":["Ashish Aggarwal","Pravin Salunke"],"abstract":"Background: Injuries secondary to lightning strikes are rare, but the nervous system is commonly involved. Cerebral hemorrhage following lightning injuries is often seen in the basal ganglia for unknown reasons. Methods: A 17-year-old male was struck by lightning and presented with left corneal ulceration and superficial burns. Neurological examination revealed left hemiplegia, and a CT scan showed a bleed in the right lentiform nucleus with mass effect. The patient underwent decompressive craniectomy and evacuation of the hematoma. Results: Post-operative care led to an improvement in the patient's sensorium and gradual recovery of motor function. The CT scans confirmed adequate decompression and hematoma evacuation. Conclusion: Lightning injuries to the central nervous system can lead to significant neurological complications, particularly intracranial hemorrhages in the basal ganglia. With aggressive management, young patients can survive and lead productive lives. Keywords: lightning strike, basal ganglia, intracranial hemorrhage, decompressive craniectomy, neurological complications, case report","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/71e1ada1-edc9-4654-aec3-ae3815d3758e/featured/hero-1782421049398.png","publishDate":"2011-11-19T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.90033","categories":["Original Article"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/3677/SNI-2-170.pdf"}