If you suffer a subdural hematoma in a slip and fall or a car accident, you will need to seek immediate medical care. The sooner the injury is treated, the more likely it is that you will not suffer permanent brain damage.
Treatment You May Need After a Subdural Hematoma
If you are diagnosed with a subdural hematoma, you may receive the following treatment:
- Ongoing monitoring. When a doctor determines that a subdural hematoma is not severe or life threatening initially, he or she may recommend simple monitoring as a form of treatment.
- Head imaging tests. In order to assess whether a subdural hematoma is healing properly, a doctor may recommend various tests, such as CT scans or MRI. These tests are often repeated more than once over a specific time period.
- Surgery. For severe subdural hematomas, doctors may recommend surgery. Burr hold trephination surgery is the procedure that is commonly used. Surgeons drill a hole in the skull over the area of the subdural hematoma, and suction is then used to remove the blood through the hole. Another type of surgery that may be used is a craniotomy. During this procedure, a larger section of the skull is removed in order to reduce pressure and create access to the hematoma. One final type of surgery that may be suggested is a craniectomy. This procedure is rarely used and involves the removal of a section of the skull for an extended period of time. By doing so, the injured brain can expand and swell without causing permanent damage.
- Life support. If the subdural hematoma victim is having difficulty breathing, hydrating, or obtaining nutrition, life support may be necessary.
- Medication. Subdural hematoma victims are often prescribed medication to control seizures and reduce the swelling or pressure in the brain.
A brain injury can occur even after a seemingly minor accident, and the costs of treatment can quickly add up. Fortunately, victims may be entitled to seek compensation for these expenses. We encourage you to contact us today at 1-800-350-8888 to schedule a free consultation.
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