Injuries are often called "catastrophic" when the physical injuries to a person are especially severe, and require extensive medical treatment. Often, the injuries may cause damage to a person's central nervous system, which may affect other bodily systems or functions. Examples of catastrophic injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Brain injuries
- Amputations
- Burns over a large portion of the body
- Loss of an eye
- Injuries to the nerves in the chest, shoulder, and arm (brachial plexus)
- Multiple fractures
In addition, many people who suffer catastrophic injuries also suffer depression or other emotional problems because of the limitations put on them by their injuries.