Subdural hemorrhage

Subdural Hemorrhage is a type of intracranial hemorrhage that occurs beneath the dura mater, one of the layers of the meninges that cover the brain. It usually results from a traumatic injury, such as a fall or a car accident, and can lead to an increase in intracranial pressure, which can cause brain damage or death.

Causes

Subdural hemorrhage is most commonly caused by head injury, when rapid changes in velocity shear the bridging veins that connect the cerebral cortex to the venous sinuses. This can cause blood to collect in the subdural space. Other causes can include anticoagulant therapy, alcoholism, and elderly age, due to brain atrophy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of subdural hemorrhage can vary depending on the severity of the injury. They can include headache, confusion, drowsiness, seizure, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, it can lead to coma or death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of subdural hemorrhage typically involves a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain. These imaging tests can show the location and size of the hemorrhage.

Treatment

Treatment for subdural hemorrhage depends on the severity of the injury. Mild cases may be monitored closely without immediate treatment. More severe cases may require surgery to remove the blood and relieve pressure on the brain. This can involve a craniotomy, in which a part of the skull is removed to access the brain, or a burr hole procedure, in which a hole is drilled into the skull to drain the blood.

Prognosis

The prognosis for subdural hemorrhage depends on the severity of the injury, the patient's age and overall health, and the speed of treatment. With prompt and appropriate treatment, some patients can recover fully. However, in severe cases, subdural hemorrhage can lead to permanent brain damage or death.

See also

• Epidural hemorrhage
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage
• Traumatic brain injury

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