Subdural Haematoma Claims

A subdural haematoma is a very serious condition that involves the collection of blood between the brain and the skull. If you or a family member have endured pain or suffering following a negligently handled subdural haematoma, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. The clinical negligence team at JMW can support you through this process.

Find out more about how we can help with your subdural haematoma claim by contacting us today. Simply call us on 0800 054 6512 or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

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What Is a Subdural Haematoma?

A subdural haematoma is a build-up of blood between the surface of the brain and the skull. Such build-ups are typically caused by head injuries and can be treated using blood thinning medication or, in extreme cases, surgery. They are very serious and you should seek medical attention immediately should you suspect you may be experiencing one.

Symptoms

The many symptoms of a subdural haematoma can include:

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Headaches that keep getting worse
• Drowsiness
• Feeling sick and vomiting
• Weakness in the limbs
• Personality changes and mood swings
• Loss of consciousness

Symptoms tend to show soon after a severe head injury (acute subdural haematoma). In rarer instances, they can also develop a few days or even weeks following a minor head injury (subacute or chronic subdural haematoma).

If you suspect that you are suffering from this condition, consult a doctor immediately.

If a diagnosis is missed or complications occur during treatment as a result of medical negligence, you may be able to make a claim.

Causes

A subdural haematoma happens when damage is caused to a blood vessel located in the subdural space, which is the space between the brain and the skull. This damage results in the formation of a blood clot as blood escapes from the blood vessel. Pressure is then placed on the brain and this can cause significant damage.

Severe head injuries, such as those caused following a fall or car accident, are the primary causes of the condition, although minor bumps to the head can also be a cause. You may be at greater risk of subdural haematoma if you suffer from a minor head injury and you:

• Are taking blood-thinning medication
• Are over the age of 60
• Have a history of alcohol misuse

Treatment

Surgery is usually required immediately following a subdural haematoma. The two types of surgery typically carried out are:

• Craniotomy - Surgeons can remove the haematoma by temporarily removing a section of the skull
• Burr holes - The haematoma can be drained via the drilling of a small hole and the insertion of a tube into the skull