What does the term "contracoup" refer to in head injuries?

The term "contracoup" refers to an injury that occurs on the opposite side of the initial point of impact. In the context of head injuries, when a force strikes the head, the brain can move within the skull due to inertia. This movement can cause injury not only at the site of impact (which is the coup injury) but also on the opposite side of the brain as the brain rebounds against the interior of the skull. This can result in significant damage and symptoms related to the brain tissue that is injured on the side opposite the trauma, making it crucial to assess for such injuries in patients who have sustained head trauma. Understanding this concept is vital for recognizing the potential severity of head injuries and determining appropriate management.