Subdural Hematoma

Subdural Hematoma & Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Subdural hematoma is a type of traumatic brain injury that causes blood vessels within the skull to burst and leak blood. As this blood pools between the covering and surface of the brain, it can spread rapidly and exert dangerous pressure on the brain. This condition requires emergency treatment to stop the bleeding and relieve pressure, since it may lead to unconsciousness and even death.

Symptoms of Subdural Hematoma

Symptoms of subdural hematoma vary, depending on the amount and location of pooling blood.

Common symptoms include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty walking or staying in balance
• Lack of energy
• Headache
• Nausea & vomiting
• Numbness & weakness
• Vision problems

Infants with subdural hematoma may also show increased irritability, an enlarged head or soft spot, lack of appetite, excessive sleepiness, and persistent vomiting.

Causes of Subdural Hematoma

The most serious type of subdural hematoma typically results from traumatic head injuries due to a fall, automobile accident, sports injury, or deliberate assault. Injuries like these may be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. On the other hand, minor head injuries that produce no outward trauma signs can also lead blood vessels to seep and cause intracranial pressure. The resulting subdural hematoma may not be evident until symptoms occur weeks or months after the injury. This condition is referred to as chronic subdural hematoma, and it is more common in older adults whose intracranial blood vessels are already stretched and more easily broken.

Subdural hematomas can also occur spontaneously, without evidence of injury.

The risk of developing a subdural hematoma increases with factors like these:

• Long-term alcohol use
• Use of blood thinners
• Blood clotting disorders
• Repeated head injury from falls or abuse
• Very young or very old age

Treatment for Subdural Hematoma

A CT scan or MRI provides physicians with an image of the brain, skull, blood vessels, and blood pooling. A blood test and examination can also offer evidence of internal bleeding.

Acute subdural hematoma is a medical emergency requiring emergency surgery to relieve brain pressure, which can be performed by an experienced neurosurgeon.

For chronic subdural hematomas and very small, acute subdural hematomas, surgeons may drill small holes in the skull to drain the blood. The physician may also prescribe diuretics, anti-seizure drugs, and corticosteroids. After surgery, physical therapy is sometimes needed to restore functioning to the pre-injury level.

Leading-Edge Hematoma Expertise From Princeton Brain, Spine, & Sports Medicine

Trained and experienced in the most advanced neurosurgery techniques, the doctors at PBSSM work with hospitals throughout PA and NJ to treat chronic and emergency medical conditions due to falls, accidents, and trauma. Our care does not stop at the operating table, though. In our practice, we practice compassionate, one-on-one medicine that leads the industry and restores quality of life to patients of all ages. Experience our unique level of care by calling 215.741.3141 in PA, 609.921.9001 in NJ, or contacting PBSSM online to schedule an appointment.