Subdural Hematoma

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• Subdural hematoma is a serious condition when blood collects underneath the protective covering of the brain known as the dura. The dura is the outermost and strongest of the three protective layers of the brain. With subdural hematoma, veins (blood vessels) that are in the dura may tear and bleed. Blood then collects within the dura, causing the dura to expand, push, and compress the brain. This compression (squeezing) of the brain can lead to serious medical problems.
  
  
• An accident or head injury is the most common cause of subdural hematoma. Aging and blood vessel wall weakness may also cause the condition. Other causes include medicines, such as blood thinners. Liver disease that is caused by drinking too much alcohol may also cause a subdural hematoma. Early diagnosis and surgery often increase your chance of recovery.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

RISKS:

Untreated subdural hematoma may cause brain damage, numbness (loss of feeling), permanent body weakness, and even death. You could get an infection after surgery. Your brain could continue to swell which may cause seizures (convulsions). Even with treatment, a subdural hematoma may return. Ask your caregiver if you have questions about your condition, medicine, or care.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent:

A consent form is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

Activity:

You may need to walk around the same day of surgery, or the day after. Movement will help prevent blood clots. You may also be given exercises to do in bed. Do not get out of bed on your own until your caregiver says you can. Talk to caregivers before you get up the first time. They may need to help you stand up safely. When you are able to get up on your own, sit or lie down right away if you feel weak or dizzy. Then press the call light button to let caregivers know you need help.

ICP monitor:

ICP stands for intracranial pressure. An ICP monitor is a small tube that is put through the skull and into the head. The tubing is connected to a TV-type screen. Caregivers use the ICP monitor to keep an ongoing measurement of the pressure inside your skull (the bones of your head).

Neurologic exam:

This is also called neuro signs, neuro checks, or neuro status. A neurologic exam can show caregivers how well your brain works after an injury or illness. Caregivers will check how your pupils (black dots in the center of each eye) react to light. They may check your memory and how easily you wake up. Your hand grasp and balance may also be tested.

Medicines:

You may have any of the following:

• Anticonvulsant medicine: This medicine is given to control seizures. Take this medicine exactly as directed.
  
  
• Diuretics: You may get diuretic medicine to help decrease swelling in your brain. This may help your brain get better blood flow.
  
  
• Steroids: This medicine may be given to decrease inflammation.

Tests:

You may have any of the following:

• Blood tests: You may need blood taken to give caregivers information about how your body is working. The blood may be taken from your hand, arm, or IV.
  
  
• CT scan: This test is also called a CAT scan. An x-ray and computer are used to take pictures of your skull and brain. You may be given dye, also called contrast, before the test. Tell the caregiver if you are allergic to dye, iodine, or seafood.
  
  
• MRI: This scan uses powerful magnets and a computer to take pictures of your brain. It will also take pictures of the blood vessels and structures in your head. You may be given dye, also called contrast, before the test. Tell caregivers if you are allergic to dye, iodine, or seafood. Remove all jewelry, and tell caregivers if you have any metal in or on your body. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell caregivers if you cannot lie still or are anxious or afraid of closed spaces.

Treatment options:

• Surgery: This is the only treatment that can remove the blood in the dura. Ask your caregiver for more information about surgery used to treat subdural hematoma.
  
  

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Subdural Hematoma (Inpatient Care)