Introduction & Purpose: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of acquired neurological impairment resulting from an external mechanical force applied to the head or brain. Depending on injury severity, location, and extent, TBI may lead to a wide range of cognitive, motor, emotional, and behavioral consequences. This review aims to examine the mechanisms of TBI across different severity levels, its clinical manifestations, neurobehavioral outcomes, and relevant rehabilitation approaches.

Methodology: This article adopts a narrative review approach. The main topics include the classification of TBI according to severity, primary and secondary injury processes, pathophysiological changes, clinical manifestations, cognitive and motor impairments, and principles of rehabilitation. The relationships between injury mechanisms and functional outcomes are considered.

Results: The reviewed concepts indicate that the consequences of TBI are not determined solely by the initial severity of the impact. Factors such as injury location and extent, diffuse axonal injury, neuroinflammation, impaired cerebral blood flow, and cerebral edema may also contribute to the development and persistence of neurological impairments. These consequences may include difficulties with memory, attention, executive functioning, balance, motor coordination, emotional regulation, and behavior. Rehabilitation needs and interventions are also related to the individual's pattern of impairment and functional status.

Conclusion: TBI is a multidimensional condition, and its consequences may vary considerably among individuals, even when injuries are classified within the same severity category. Understanding the relationships between injury mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and neurobehavioral outcomes may support more comprehensive assessment and the development of individualized rehabilitation programs. A multidisciplinary approach involving cognitive rehabilitation, physical rehabilitation, speech therapy, and occupational therapy is important in addressing the consequences of TBI.