What type of head injury involves a penetrated dura mater?

An open head injury is characterized by a breach in the protective layers surrounding the brain, which includes the dura mater. When the dura mater is penetrated, it indicates that the injury has compromised the integrity of the skull and surrounding tissues. This type of injury often results from a foreign object or significant trauma that breaks through the skull and dura mater, exposing the brain to the outside environment.

In contrast, a closed head injury does not involve any penetration of the skull or dura mater; it occurs when there is a forceful impact, leading to potential brain injury without any external wounds. Contusions and concussions describe specific types of brain injuries, such as bruising or functional disturbances without structural damage, but neither entails penetration of the dura mater itself. Therefore, an open head injury is the only option that aligns with the definition of penetrating the dura mater.