Epidural Hematoma of the Spine
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney. The central nervous system is a complicated structure. There are numerous injuries that someone could sustain. One of the injuries is called an epidural hematoma. This is a well-known injury to the brain. However, it could happen in the spine as well.
An epidural hematoma of the spine is similar to the epidural hematoma that often accompanies a traumatic brain injury. This hematoma develops when one of the blood vessels in the spine is damaged. There are many reasons that this could happen. Possible mechanisms include:
- Trauma: A direct impact to the back can tear some of the blood vessels. This trauma could occur in an auto accident. If someone isn’t wearing a seatbelt and is ejected from the vehicle, he or she can suffer vertebral fractures. A bone fragment can cut through blood vessels, leading to a hematoma.
- Medical Procedure: A hematoma can also form as a result of a lumbar puncture. When this procedure is performed, a needle is inserted into the back. If blood vessels are punctured, a hematoma can develop.
What is the Treatment Process?
The treatment of an epidural hematoma of the spine is drainage. This typically requires imaging guidance or a trip to an operating room. Using a sterile needle, blood will be drained from the spine to relieve the hematoma. Possible complications of this procedure include:
- Infection: Bacteria can infiltrate the skin at the site, leading to disease.
- Nerve Damage: Some nerves run through the spinal cord. These could be damaged in the procedure.
- Pain: Pain is possible with any needle insertion. Most physicians will provide topical pain medication to dull this pain.
Help with Complications
If the hematoma is not treated quickly, complications could develop. These include:
- Blood Clot Formation: The blood can pool in the hematoma, leading to clot formation. These clots can travel, leading to a stroke or a pulmonary embolism.
- Nerve Compression: If the hematoma presses on nerves, people may start to notice shooting pains. These sensations can run down the arms and legs. They might have issues twisting from side to side as well.
- Cord Damage: As the hematoma grows, it can start to cause damage to the spinal cord itself. Severe symptoms can develop, such as incontinence, pain, or paralysis.
These complications can be troubling for people, adding stress to their lives. People with questions should speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Sacramento.
Related Articles
- Signs and Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury or Concussion
- Children and Adolescents with Spinal Cord Injuries
Personal Injury Lawyers in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney. If you or a loved one has concerns about a spinal injury or procedure, call me at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 to receive free, friendly legal advice.
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