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Is Flight Journey Advisable When Diagnosed With A Slight Subdural Hematoma?

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Posted on Sat, 10 Dec 2016
Question: How long before flying as a passenger for 8 hrs after a slight subdural hematoma?
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Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (20 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Read below

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

There is not a precise waiting period, it may vary from a couple of weeks to 6 months, it is not a clear cut decision, you might get somewhat differing opinions from different doctors. Also it is unclear whether you had surgery for this hematoma. Whether you were immobilized is an important information as well since immobilization and long time air travel both increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Other conditions such as high blood pressure, heart conditions, hemorrhagic tendency may play a role in the decision.

Since you say it to have been a slight hematoma, if it caused no prolonged bed immobilization and no surgery was needed I would say a 2-4 weeks of waiting period is enough, possibly having a control CT scan before. If on the scan there is still bleeding or if there are other conditions to account for then it may need some more.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3673 Questions

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Is Flight Journey Advisable When Diagnosed With A Slight Subdural Hematoma?

Brief Answer: Read below Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. There is not a precise waiting period, it may vary from a couple of weeks to 6 months, it is not a clear cut decision, you might get somewhat differing opinions from different doctors. Also it is unclear whether you had surgery for this hematoma. Whether you were immobilized is an important information as well since immobilization and long time air travel both increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Other conditions such as high blood pressure, heart conditions, hemorrhagic tendency may play a role in the decision. Since you say it to have been a slight hematoma, if it caused no prolonged bed immobilization and no surgery was needed I would say a 2-4 weeks of waiting period is enough, possibly having a control CT scan before. If on the scan there is still bleeding or if there are other conditions to account for then it may need some more. I remain at your disposal for other questions.