A contre-coup injury of the brain is produced when:
- A A moving blunt object strikes a stationary head
- B A moving head strikes a stationary surface ✓
- C A penetrating weapon directly lacerates brain tissue
- D Rotational forces stretch bridging veins
Correct answer: B. A moving head strikes a stationary surface
Explanation
Contre-coup injury occurs at a site diametrically opposite to the point of impact and is best seen when a moving head strikes a stationary surface (fall). The brain momentarily separates from the skull on the side of impact creating a partial vacuum, and then rebounds producing injury at the opposite pole. Coup injury (at impact site) predominates when a moving object strikes a stationary head.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.