A
subdural hematoma (American spelling) or
subdural haematoma (British spelling), also known as a
subdural haemorrhage (SDH), is a type of
hematoma, usually associated with
traumatic brain injury.
Blood gathers between the
dura mater, and the brain. Usually resulting from tears in
bridging veins which cross the
subdural space, subdural hemorrhages may cause an increase in
intracranial pressure (ICP), which can cause compression of and damage to delicate brain tissue. Subdural hematomas are often life-threatening when acute. Chronic subdural hematomas, however, have a better
prognosis if properly managed.