Can you see epidural hematoma on CT scan?

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.

How is epidural hematoma diagnosed?

An epidural hematoma (EDH) is diagnosed using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of your head or spine. In the head, a hematoma appears as a dense mass that pushes the brain away from the skull.

How can you tell the difference between a subdural hematoma and an epidural CT?

Subdural hematomas are concave toward the brain and unlimited by suture lines, as opposed to epidural hematomas, which are convex toward the brain and restricted by suture lines. Rarely, a subdural hematoma appears lens shaped (ie, more like an epidural hematoma).

Can MRI detect epidural hematoma?

MRI can establish the presence, location and extent of the haematoma, along with cord compression and concurrent injuries. Epidural haematoma is the most common location of haematoma in the spine.

What does an epidural hematoma look like on CT?

In almost all cases, extradural hematomas are seen on CT scans of the brain. They are typically bi-convex (or lentiform) in shape, and most frequently beneath the squamous part of the temporal bone. EDHs are hyperdense, somewhat heterogeneous, and sharply demarcated.

How is a spinal hematoma diagnosed?

A spinal subdural or epidural hematoma is an accumulation of blood in the subdural or epidural space that can mechanically compress the spinal cord. Diagnosis is by MRI or, if not immediately available, by CT myelography. Treatment is with immediate surgical drainage.

What is the most common cause of epidural hematoma?

What causes an epidural hematoma? An epidural hematoma usually results from trauma or other injury to your head. For example, your brain may be subjected to a damaging blow during a fall, vehicular accident, or collision in contact sports. Physical abuse can also cause head injury and lead to an epidural hematoma.

How long does it take for an epidural hematoma to reabsorb?

It is likely recovery from an epidural hematoma will take months or even years. In many cases, initial improvements happen within about 6 months after the injury.

What does a subdural hematoma look like on CT?

Subdural Hematoma (Subacute). On CT scan, the findings may be subtle – acute blood is bright; chronic blood is dark, but subacute blood may be isointense, as in this case. If one looks closely, one can see that all the sulci in the right hemisphere are effaced, but are normal in the left hemisphere.

Which one is worse epidural or subdural hematoma?

Because epidural hematomas typically involve an artery, bleeding and increased intracranial pressure may occur much more rapidly, requiring more urgent intervention. In contrast, though still serious, subdural hematomas involve veins which tend to bleed and grow more slowly.

How do I know if I have spinal hematoma?

A spinal hematoma is a collection of blood that compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots. Significant compression of the spinal cord can result in irreversible neurologic damage. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, loss of bowel and/or bladder control, or paralysis.

Which is the typical CT findings of acute epidural hemorrhage?

CT. In almost all cases, extradural hematomas are seen on CT scans of the brain. They are typically bi-convex (or lentiform) in shape, and most frequently beneath the squamous part of the temporal bone. EDHs are hyperdense, somewhat heterogeneous, and sharply demarcated.