Subdural hematoma in non-accidental head injury

Abstract

Subdural hematoma in infants and young children happens most frequently, but not exclusively, in the setting of non-accidental head injury. Irrespective of the etiology, this injury type can be associated with a variety of pathophysiologic changes, including those which appear to affect the relationship between substrate delivery and metabolic demand. The exact underpinnings and necessary conditions for these changes remain incompletely understood but appear to be specific for children during early development. This chapter will review the clinical presentation, spectrum of mechanisms, and neuroanatomic and cerebrovascular considerations for this common and often serious injury type.