Epidural/Subdural Hematoma’s

Brian Kelleher

DescriptionEpidural Hematoma Subdural Hematoma

An extradural hemorrhage is bleeding between the inside of the skull and the outer covering of the brain (called the "dura").

A subdural hematoma is a collection of blood between the dura and the surface of the brain.

Area AffectedEpidural Hematoma Subdural Hematoma

An extradural hemorrhage occurs when there is a rupture of a blood vessel, usually an artery, which then bleeds into the space between the "dura mater" and the skull. The affected vessels are often torn by skull fractures.

Areas affected by subdural hematomas are the brain because of the severe swelling inside the dura.

Cause of InjuryEpidural Hematoma Subdural Hematoma

This is most often the result of a severe head injury, such as those caused by motorcycle or automobile accidents. Extradural hemorrhages can be caused by venous (from a vein) bleeding in young children.

With any subdural hematoma, tiny veins between the surface of the brain and its outer covering (the dura) stretch and tear, allowing blood to collect. They can also occur spontaneously.

Treatment Emergency surgery may be needed to reduce

pressure within the brain. This may involve drilling a small hole in the skull, which allows blood to drain and relieves pressure on the brain. Large hematomas or solid blood clots may need to be removed through a procedure called a craniotomy, which creates a larger opening in the skull.

Recovery Recovery from hematomas depends on the

severity of the injury. If it’s stopped before too much pressure builds up in the brain then recovery is usually about 6 months. Mortality rates of subdural hematomas are about 60%, and 15-20% for epidural hematomas.