Facts About TBI’s You’d Be Surprised To Learn!
The medical term “hematoma” has a specific meaning that relates to certain traumatic brain injuries. In order to win a lawsuit involving this type of physical injury, it is important to understand how a hematoma is viewed by the medical community, the possible outcomes for such an injury and how it affects the patient’s future.
Hematoma—A Definition
The word “hematoma” specifically refers to the pooling of blood on the surface of the brain. It comes from two Greek words: heme, which means “blood,” and oma, which means “body.” Therefore, a hematoma, sometimes spelled “haematoma,” means a “body of blood.” Technically, a hematoma is any grouping of blood cells outside of a blood vessel.
While most hematomas in the body are essentially harmless, such as bruises that occur when someone strikes an arm or leg, subdural hematomas or hematomas that occur beneath the dura matter of the brain can be very serious. Pooling blood pushes on the brain, which has no defense against the mounting pressure. Irreparable brain damage can result.
Classifying Subdural Hematomas
There are three types of subdural hematomas:
- An acute hematoma occurs immediately after an injury. It is usually easily recognized by its symptoms: devastating brain injury, coma and even death. However, some acute hematomas do not result in serious symptoms immediately. About 60 percent of acute subdural hematoma cases result in permanent brain damage or death.
- Subacute bleeding often occurs in the days or weeks following an injury. These hematomas are more difficult to identify as their symptoms may take time to appear. Even if a victim feels normal immediately following an accident, it is very possible to have a subacute hematoma that has not yet been noted.
- Chronic hematomas occur over time and are fairly consistent. Some people refer to this type of hematoma as a “brain bleed,” and it can be caused by things other than an accident. For example, some medications can cause bleeding in the brain.
What If I Have a Brain Injury?
If you have been the victim of an accident that resulted in a brain injury, it is extremely important for you to take steps to recover compensation to pay for ongoing medical treatment and other expenses. Call Daniel M. Gilleon in San Diego immediately for a free consultation about your case. Do not wait; take action immediately to protect your rights.
