Craniotomy for subdural hematoma/Intraparenchymal hematoma

What it is:

 A surgical procedure where a portion of the skull is temporarily removed to evacuate blood clots pressing on the brain due to bleeding in the subdural space or within brain tissue itself. This relieves intracranial pressure and prevents further brain injury.

Symptoms:

• Subdural hematoma: Severe headache, confusion, seizures, weakness or numbness (especially on one side), drowsiness, personality changes, and loss of consciousness.
• Intraparenchymal hematoma: Sudden neurological deficits, vomiting, slurred speech, unequal pupils, and coma in severe cases.

Treatment:

Performed under general anesthesia, the procedure involves:

1. Making a scalp incision and removing a bone flap
2. Evacuating the hematoma and controlling bleeding
3. Replacing the bone flap and closing the incision
   Recovery includes ICU monitoring, imaging follow-ups, and rehabilitation. Risks include infection, seizures, stroke, and recurrence of bleeding.