PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What term describes blood collection under the dura?

1. Epidural hemorrhage

2. Subdural hemorrhage

3. Intracerebral hemorrhage

4. Extradural hemorrhage

The correct answer is: Subdural hemorrhage

The term that describes blood collection under the dura is subdural hemorrhage. This type of hemorrhage occurs when there is bleeding that collects between the dura mater, which is the outermost protective membrane covering the brain, and the arachnoid mater, the middle layer. Subdural hematomas typically result from trauma, which may cause tearing of the bridging veins that traverse this space, leading to the accumulation of blood. Subdural hemorrhages can present acutely after head injuries or chronically, particularly in the elderly or individuals with ataxia, where minor trauma may lead to significant bleeding due to the reduced elasticity of their brain tissues. This condition often requires careful evaluation and may necessitate surgical intervention if the hematoma is large or symptomatic. Understanding the location of bleeding is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, as it directly influences management decisions and potential complications. In contrast, other types of hemorrhage, such as epidural (which occurs above the dura) and intracerebral (within the brain tissue), involve different mechanisms and clinical significance.