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 Medical Abbreviation: A Closer Look at Acute Subdural Hematomas
Subdural Hematomas (SDH) is a type of brain injury. It can be either acute or chronic. Acute Subdural Hematoma (ASDH) occurs as the result of fast changing velocity to the head. This type of injury is usually the result of a serious head injury from an accident or abuse. It is one of the most common types of injuries that occur in infants who are physically abused. ASDH are the deadliest of head injuries, in fact there is a 60-80% mortality rate associated with them.
Abbreviation |
Medical Diagnosis |
ASDH |
Acute Subdural Hematomas |
ASDH occurs when the tiny vein between the surface of the brain and its outer covering (often referred to as the dura) stretches and tears. The damage to the veins can also cause blood clots to collect in this area causing increased pressure to the brain. The bleeding from ASDH usually occurs from the veins (and not the arteries) because of this the effects of the injury can cause a delay in noticing damage. Sometimes the delay can be from 24 hours to two weeks post injury.
Symptoms noted in those who have had this type of injury include:
- Loss of consciousness following the head injury
- Headache
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Inability to speak
- Slurred speech
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Seizures
Additional symptoms noted in infants and very young children include the following:
- Increased head circumference
- Separated sutures
- Irritability
- High pitched scream
- Separated suture lines
- Bulging fontanelles
- Focal seizures
- Generalized tonic seizures
Diagnosis is typically made with a CT or MRI. On the CT scan, the ASDH appears as a crescent shape with a concave surface away from the skull.
ASDH requires emergent intervention. Often times, surgery is required to relieve cranial pressure. This is accomplished by a hole being drilled through the skull. A craniotomy may also be needed to remove large blood clots to the area. Medications are sometimes used for treatment depending on the symptoms and condition of the patient. Diuretics may be used to help remove excess fluid and thereby decreasing swelling. Often times, seizure medications are prescribed to help with the seizures that are common as a result of this injury.
Please contact our office regarding how our firm’s medical legal consulting can best help you in a case that may involve this type of condition.
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