Subdural Hematoma & Brain Bleed Surgery
A subdural hematoma is a collection of blood between the brain and its outer covering, usually after a fall or minor head bump, especially in older adults or people on blood thinners. Chronic subdural hematomas can appear weeks after a forgotten injury with headache, confusion, weakness or unsteadiness. Intracerebral hemorrhage is bleeding within the brain itself, often related to blood pressure.
Dr. Daggubati provides emergency neurosurgical coverage at hospitals across Northern Virginia and Maryland, and follows patients through recovery and prevention of recurrence.
Symptoms
- Headache
- Confusion, drowsiness or personality change
- Weakness on one side
- Unsteadiness, falls
- Speech difficulty
- Seizure
How it is diagnosed
CT scan of the head; MRI in selected cases.
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, or decreased alertness — especially after a fall or if taking blood thinners.
Treatment options
Without surgery
Small collections may be watched with repeat imaging; reversal of blood thinners; middle meningeal artery embolization in selected chronic cases.
Surgical options Dr. Daggubati offers
- Burr-hole or minimally invasive evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma
- Craniotomy for acute hematoma
Common questions
Can a chronic subdural hematoma come back?
Recurrence occurs in a minority of patients. Careful drainage, management of blood thinners, and in some cases embolization of the middle meningeal artery reduce that risk.
Not sure this is you?
Bring your imaging and your story. A single visit usually clarifies what is going on and which options are realistic. Request an appointment or call (301) 718-9611.