Children who have a skull fracture without evidence of a brain injury need not be routinely hospitalized. Children are also kept in the hospital if child abuse is suspected. In the hospital, children are observed closely for changes in the level of consciousness and in breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Doctors also look for evidence of increased pressure within the skull by frequently examining the pupils of the eyes and by watching for changes in sensation or strength and for seizures. A CT scan of the head may be performed or repeated if seizures occur, vomiting continues, drowsiness increases, or the condition deteriorates in any other way.
Nothing can reverse damage that has already occurred.
However, further damage may be prevented by ensuring that enough blood containing sufficient oxygen is reaching the brain. Pressure within the brain is kept as normal as possible by immediately treating any brain swelling and reducing any pressure on the brain. For an epidural hematoma, emergency surgery must be performed to remove the pooled blood and thus prevent it from pressing on the brain and causing damage. With appropriate treatment, most children who have a simple epidural hematoma recover fully. A subdural hematoma also may need to be removed surgically.