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Series:   Elements in Emergency Neurosurgery

Acute Spontaneous Posterior Fossa Haemorrhage

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2024

Lauren Harris  and
Patrick Grover
Lauren Harris
Affiliation:
National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
Patrick Grover
Affiliation:
National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery

Summary

Non-traumatic posterior fossa haemorrhage accounts for approximately 10% of all intracranial haematomas, and 1.5% of all strokes. In the posterior fossa, a small amount of mass effect can have dramatic effects, due to its small volume. This can be due to immediate transmission of pressure to the brainstem, or via occlusion of the aqueduct of Sylvius or compression of the fourth ventricle, leading to acute obstructive hydrocephalus, with the risk of tonsillar herniation. Timely investigations and management are essential to maximise good outcomes. This Element offers a brief overview of posterior fossa haemorrhage. It looks at the anatomy, aetiology, management, and surgical options, with a review of the available evidence to guide practice.
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Keywords

neurosurgeryposterior fossahaemorrhagedecompressionsurgery
Type
Element
Information
Series: Elements in Emergency Neurosurgery
Online ISBN: 9781009456456
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication: 29 February 2024

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Acute Spontaneous Posterior Fossa Haemorrhage
  • Lauren Harris, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Patrick Grover, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
  • Online ISBN: 9781009456456
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Acute Spontaneous Posterior Fossa Haemorrhage
  • Lauren Harris, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Patrick Grover, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
  • Online ISBN: 9781009456456
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Acute Spontaneous Posterior Fossa Haemorrhage
  • Lauren Harris, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Patrick Grover, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
  • Online ISBN: 9781009456456
Available formats
×