Subdural Hematoma
A subdural hematoma is a medical condition in which blood accumulates between the brain and its protective outer layer due to ruptured blood vessels, often caused by head trauma.
Varying in severity, it poses a threat to neurological function, necessitating prompt medical attention.
Recognizing the symptoms and treatment options is vital for effective management and positive outcomes.
What is a Subdural Hematoma?
A subdural hematoma is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of blood between the tissue layers surrounding the brain.
Three protective layers cover the brain:
- the outermost dura mater
- the arachnoid mater beneath it
- the pia mater directly covering the brain
A subdural hematoma occurs when blood accumulates between the dura and arachnoid mater.
Are Subdural Hematomas Serious? Yes, a subdural hematoma can be serious, causing pressure on the brain that may lead to breathing problems, paralysis, unconsciousness or death if not promptly treated. Any head injury should be considered serious. If you hit your head, getting checked out at a hospital is important. |
Types of Subdural Hematoma
- Acute: This is the most critical type of subdural hematoma. Symptoms emerge rapidly after a head injury, and without prompt treatment, it can lead to unconsciousness, paralysis, or death due to increased pressure on the brain.
- Subacute: Symptoms typically manifest hours to days, or even weeks, following a head injury, often associated with a concussion.
- Chronic: More prevalent in older individuals, these involve slow bleeding, and symptoms may surface weeks or months after injury. Due to the delayed onset, individuals may not recall the injury, and subtle changes may go unnoticed by them or their friends and family.
Causes of Subdural Hematoma
- Head injury from accidents or violent attack.
- Brain shrinking (atrophy). This is more common in older adults.
- Medicines to prevent blood clots, like warfarin, aspirin, and other blood thinners
- Leak of cerebrospinal fluid
Symptoms of Subdural Hematoma
- Headache that doesn’t go away
- Confusion and drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Speech problems
- Vision problems
- Dizziness, loss of balance, difficulty walking
- Weakness
- Memory loss, disorientation, and personality changes, particularly in older adults
- Enlarged head in babies, as blood collects in their soft skulls.
As bleeding persists and the pressure in the brain increases, symptoms can get worse:
- Paralysis
- Seizures
- Breathing problems
- Loss of consciousness and coma
Diagnosis of Subdural Hematomas
Dr. Martin Liner, a neurosurgery doctor in Dubai, will conduct a thorough physical examination. He will inquire about the head injury, symptoms, medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits.
The neurology exam includes checks of strength and sensitivity, fine motor skills, reflexes, balance, vision and hearing, orientation and memory assessments.
If a subdural hematoma is suspected, a CT or MRI scan will be ordered to precisely visualize the brain, assess the extent of bleeding, and identify other head and neck injuries.
Treatment of Subdural Hematomas
Treatment for subdural hematomas often involves surgical intervention to alleviate pressure on the brain caused by the accumulating blood.
Observation :
Burr hole trephination:
Craniotomy :
Craniectomy :
Consult Dr. Martin Liner for Subdural Hematoma Treatment in Dubai
Dr. Martin Liner is a distinguished German board-certified neurology doctor in Dubai with over two decades of experience. Renowned for his specialized expertise in subdural hematoma care, Dr. Martin is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate medical services.
If you are experiencing symptoms, seek relief through consultation with Dr. Martin Liner for subdural hematoma surgery in Dubai.
