Subdural Hemorrhage Case Study

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Choice "E" is the best answer. The nature and timing of surgical intervention in subdural hemorrhage (SDH) depends upon multiple factors, including patient age and neurologic status. Imaging factors include size and location of the hematoma and signs of raised intracranial pressure, including the presence or absence of a midline shift. Emergency surgery does not guarantee a good outcome. Most neurosurgeons are even more reluctant to operate in a setting of impaired hemostasis. The role of surgical evacuation in a setting of anticoagulation has not been well defined.

Surgical evacuation via craniotomy is often considered in patients with an acute SDH thicker than 5 mm (as measured with axial computed tomography [CT]) and who have any neurologic signs, such as lethargy or other change in mental status, or a focal neurologic deficit. This patient has none of these findings, with a normal Glasgow score. Given the CT scan results showing stability, close observation is probably the most …show more content…

Control of blood pressure is especially important in intracranial hemorrhage, which is highly associated with hypertension. This patient has SDH and no elevation of his blood pressure.

Choice "B" is not the best answer. Craniectomy refers to the removal of a bone plate as part of the procedure. A craniectomy is used when there is raised intracranial pressure. If there is brain injury and edema, an intracranial pressure monitor should be placed.

Choice "C" is not the best answer. A large craniotomy over the thickest portion of the clot is the usual procedure used to decompress the brain in acute subdural hemorrhage. The Sylvian fissure is included in the exposure, if possible, as this is the most likely location of a ruptured cortical bridging vein, especially in trauma. A craniotomy is used to stop active bleeding and to evacuate any hematoma. The clot usually has a consistency that is too firm to allow removal through burr holes

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