PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What are surgical indications for intracerebral hemorrhage?

1. Establishing a tissue diagnosis

2. Progressive alteration of consciousness

3. Relief of increased intracranial pressure

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The surgical indications for intracerebral hemorrhage encompass several critical clinical scenarios. Intracerebral hemorrhage can lead to significant complications, and intervention may be necessary to address these issues. One primary indication for surgery is the progressive alteration of consciousness. This condition often signifies a worsening neurological status, which could be caused by the expanding hematoma or increased intracranial pressure. Surgical intervention may be required to relieve the pressure and prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition. Relief of increased intracranial pressure is another vital surgical indication. Elevated intracranial pressure can lead to brain herniation and potential death if not addressed promptly. In cases where medical management is insufficient, surgical procedures such as decompressive craniectomy or hematoma evacuation can be performed to alleviate pressure on the brain. While establishing a tissue diagnosis is not a primary surgical indication for managing intracerebral hemorrhage, it may play a role in the broader context of neurooncology or unexplained hemorrhage. However, it is not typically the reason for surgical intervention specifically in cases of intracerebral hemorrhage. Therefore, the comprehensive need for surgical intervention in the face of progressive alteration of consciousness and the imperative to relieve increased intracranial pressure supports the conclusion that all of these