Definitions

Subdivision 1. Scope. For purposes of sections 144.661 to 144.665, the following terms have the meanings given them. Subd. 2. Traumatic brain injury. "Traumatic brain injury" means a sudden insult or damage to the brain or its coverings caused by an external physical force which may produce a diminished or altered state of consciousness and which results in the following disabilities: (1) impairment of cognitive or mental abilities; (2) impairment of physical functioning; or (3) disturbance of behavioral or emotional functioning. These disabilities may be temporary or permanent and may result in partial or total loss of function. "Traumatic brain injury" does not include injuries of a degenerative or congenital nature. Subd. 3. Spinal cord injury. "Spinal cord injury" means an injury that occurs as a result of trauma which may involve spinal vertebral fracture and where the injured person suffers an acute, traumatic lesion of neural elements in the spinal canal, resulting in any degree of temporary or permanent sensory deficit, motor deficit, or bladder or bowel dysfunction. "Spinal cord injury" does not include intervertebral disc disease.