The clinical and CT features of rapid spontaneous resolution of traumatic acute subdural hematoma: A retrospective study of 14 cases.

OBJECTIVE: Resolution of a traumatic acute subdural haematoma (ASDH) requires weeks or months. However, cases of rapid spontaneous resolution of ASDH within 72 hours after trauma have been reported. The purpose of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the clinical and CT features of cases of rapid resolution following traumatic ASDH.

METHOD: Between 2011-2014, the authors retrospectively collected data from 14 patients with rapid resolution of traumatic ASDH. The clinical data and CT findings of these cases were collected and analysed.

RESULTS: In 13 of the 14 patients, there was a rapid spontaneous resolution of the ASDH within 48 hours. The mean haematoma width of the second CT was significantly smaller than the width of the initial CT. A significantly marked resolution of the midline shift was observed in the second CT in all patients. The outcome was good in the majority of patients.

CONCLUSIONS: The acute fluctuation of ICP may drive the spontaneous rapid resolution and redistribution of ASDH. Patients with abnormal coagulant function may be more likely to experience rapid resolution of ASDH. A band of low density in the initial CT image may be a useful sign for rapid resolution of ASDH.