According to the results of a recent study, the diameter of the left atrium in the heart may have an effect on vascular brain injury. The new research may have implications for cardiology and neurology patients in West Virginia and across the United States. The study shows that atrial enlargement has not been associated with leukoaraiosis (white matter disease).

The study used data from the Cardiovascular Health Study and was published in the medical journal, Neurology. The data was gathered from 5,888 individuals age 65 or older in four randomly-selected counties in Maryland, California, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Each participant had their left atrium measured via a two-dimensional echocardiogram. The brain was then evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging. The patients were followed up throughout the study with semi-annual phone calls and yearly physical exams.

The study found that 29 percent of participants who had an enlargement in the left atrium were more likely to experience a vascular brain injury. Vascular brain injury is more likely to occur following a traumatic brain injury. A vascular brain injury could lead to a stroke, which could be deadly. Strokes occur when a blood clot travels to the brain and stops the brain from receiving blood and oxygen.

People who suffer a stroke as a result of a traumatic brain injury will need specialized treatment. Many people who experience stroke must undergo extensive physical and occupational rehabilitation. Some people who suffer a stroke may be placed on permanent disability and some may die as a result of the stroke.

Traumatic brain injury typically occurs as a result of a fall or car accident. When the brain injury was caused due to the negligence of another person, the injured party may be entitled to financial compensation. A lawyer may be able to help his or her client receive monetary damages by filing a lawsuit.