Which surgical action is recommended for acute subdural hematomas greater than 10 mm in thickness?

Surgical evacuation is the recommended action for acute subdural hematomas greater than 10 mm in thickness due to the significant risk such hematomas pose to the patient. When a subdural hematoma exceeds 10 mm, it suggests a substantial collection of blood in the subdural space, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure and potentially life-threatening complications such as brain herniation or permanent neurological damage.

The primary goal in the management of larger acute subdural hematomas is to alleviate the pressure on the brain by removing the accumulated blood. This can restore normal intracranial dynamics and improve outcomes in terms of survival and neurological function. Surgical evacuation allows direct access to the hematoma, facilitating the removal of the clot and any associated debris, thereby reducing the risk of further complications.

Options involving observation only, cranial pressure monitoring, or medication management may be appropriate for smaller hematomas or those that are stable. These approaches might focus on monitoring the patient's neurological status or controlling symptoms, but they would not adequately address the urgent need for intervention in cases where the hematoma is large and symptomatic. Thus, surgical evacuation stands out as the critical intervention for hematomas exceeding the threshold of 10 mm in thickness to prevent further deterioration of