Epidural Hematoma
An epidural hematoma (EDH) is when an extra-axial collection of blood forms in the space between the skull and the protective covering of the brain. It is a life threatening condition which will require immediate intervention and can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. Trauma or other forms of head injuries can cause the brain to bounce against the skull causing a tear in the brain’s internal lining, tissues and blood vessels which results in bleeding. This can lead to the formation of a hematoma. An epidural hematoma puts pressure on the brain and causes swelling. If left untreated this condition can cause permanent brain damage and even death.
What are the symptoms of Epidural Hematoma?
Symptoms of an epidural hematoma can develop immediately after an injury or slowly over the course of the next few hours. The severity of the injury and the speed of blood filling into the lining between the brain and the skull decides the time it will take for the symptoms to develop. Upon accumulation of blood inside the brain, brain structures push together and create pressure.
The major symptoms include
- Older people
- Those who have trouble walking without falling
- Head trauma
- Consumption of blood thinning medications
- Consumption of alcohol
- Athletes in contact sports
- Riding without helmets
- Driving without seat belts
Epidural hematomas are direct results of physical trauma to the head.
- Head injury from a contact sport
- Car accident
- Fall from a ladder
- Physical abuse or violent attacks
- Skull fracture due to severe head injury or trauma
- More common in young people compared to older people
A thorough physical and neurological examination along with diagnostic procedures is necessary to diagnose an epidural hematoma.
Diagnostic Procedures
- Head CT
- Head MRI
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
The examination may indicate the part of the brain that is not functioning or raised intracranial pressure.
Epidural Hematoma is an emergency condition for which treatment is done with an aim to save the patient’s life, control the symptoms and minimize or prevent any damage to the brain.
The treatment includes
- Life support measures
- Emergency surgery
- Aspiration, also known as surgical drainage
- Craniotomy
- Medications to control the symptoms and brain damage
- Anticonvulsant medications
- Hyperosmotic agents
