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Craniotomy for extradural haemotoma
SURGERY FOR A BLOOD CLOT THAT FORMS ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE NATURAL COVERING OF THE BRAIN
Our leading neurosurgeons treat bleeding on the brain (haematoma) through surgery
What is extradural haematoma?
Extradural haematoma is a condition is where blood collects and clots between the inner surface of the skull and the firm covering of the brain (dura). It's usually caused by a head injury or skull fracture.
Extradural haematomas are usually treated urgently in major trauma centres, but occasionally they may develop slowly with fewer effects on the patient, and these are sometimes treated in private hospitals. A craniotomy is an effective treatment for an extradural haematoma.
Need to know
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic. Your head will usually be partly shaved prior to the surgery.
To start the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision in your scalp over the area of the blood clot (haematoma). They'll then use a drill to make a temporary window in the skull. Next, they'll remove the blood clot from the dura using suction and irrigation (washing out with fluid).
Once the haematoma has been removed, your consultation will put the section of skull they removed back in place and secure it.
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
You will wake up in the theatre recovery unit, where you will be monitored closely. It's not unusual to feel nauseous after surgery, and this will be controlled with medication.
Your consultant may suggest a follow up MRI or CT scan to observe your progress after surgery. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise. Stitches are usually removed around 10 days after surgery.
Our Craniotomy for extradural haemotoma consultants
Mr Francesco Vergani
Neurosurgery
Mr Ranjeev Bhangoo
Neurosurgery
Mr Irfan Malik
Neurosurgery
Mr Daniel Walsh
Neurosurgery
Our Craniotomy for extradural haemotoma locations
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David's gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.