Traumatic Fetal Subdural Hematoma and Unstable Maternal Spine Fracture

We present a remarkable image of a woman, 24 weeks pregnant, who sustained polytrauma after a high-speed motor vehicle collision. Evaluation revealed traumatic bilateral subdural hematoma in the fetus and an unstable T12-L1 fracture in the patient. The standard of care for her unstable fracture was surgical fixation; however, this was hampered by the desire to continue the pregnancy in the interest of the premature fetus. This case presented a unique additional consideration in the management of the polytrauma neurosurgery patient and underscores the importance of coordinated team work and patient counseling to achieve the optimal patient outcome.