What is epidural hematoma of the brain?
What is epidural hematoma of the brain?
An epidural hematoma (EDH) occurs when blood accumulates between the skull and the dura mater, the thick membrane covering the brain. They typically occur when a skull fracture tears an underlying blood vessel. EDHs are about half as common as a subdural hematomas and usually occur in young adults.
Can CT scan detect epidural hematoma?
CT scanning is the examination of choice in the evaluation of suspected intracranial epidural hematoma. However, because of volume averaging with adjacent bone, small epidural hematomas can be difficult to detect with CT scanning. MRI should be performed when spinal EDH is considered possible.
Is epidural hemorrhage an emergency?
EDH results from traumatic head injury, usually with associated skull fracture and arterial laceration. This is a life-threatening condition that may require immediate intervention and can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated.
Can you survive epidural hematoma?
In a study of 41 patients with epidural hematoma at a level I trauma center, patient age, severity of traumatic brain injury, and neurologic status were the main factors influencing outcome. Two patients died within 24 hours, and 39 patients (95%) survived.
Is an epidural hematoma fatal?
An epidural hematoma can put pressure on your brain and cause it to swell. As it swells, your brain may shift in your skull. Pressure on and damage to your brain’s tissues can affect your vision, speech, mobility, and consciousness. If left untreated, an epidural hematoma can cause lasting brain damage and even death.
What are the side effects of getting an epidural?
What are the side effects of getting an Epidural? Common side effects include mild itching, difficulty passing urine, no feeling in your lower tummy and legs, and inability to move your legs until the medication wears off (usually up to 8 hours). Other side effects include nausea and mild back pain after delivery.
What are the risks of epidural steroid injections (ESIS)?
The risks in any procedure involving a needle include bleeding, infection and nerve damage. When performed properly, the risk of any of these is exceedingly low and usually outweighed by the potential benefit of the procedure. Some contraindications for performing epidural steroid injections include:
Who performs epidural steroid injections at HSS?
Epidural steroid injections at HSS are performed by several types of doctors – pain management physicians, physiatrists and interventional radiologists – all of whom are trained to safely perform this procedure, often with additional subspecialty fellowship training. Updated: 9/15/2020
What are the contraindications for lumbosacral epidural steroid injections?
There are a few contraindications to performing lumbosacral epidural steroid injections, including bleeding disorder, anticoagulation, and allergy to medications. Other contraindications include pregnancy and the inability to be positioned horizontally or to “lie prone”.
