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Medical Examiner Unveils Details of Natasha Richardson's Death Cause

March 20, 2009 04:13:19 GMT

Natasha Richardson's tragic death is pronounced accident, the New York City medical examiner's office confirms, adding that she died of "epidural hematoma".
Natasha Richardson
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On Thursday, March 19, just one day after Natasha Richardson was pronounced dead, the New York City medical examiner's office confirmed in a statement that the actress' death was an accident. Detailing on the specific cause of her death, medical examiner spokeswoman Ellen Borakove said the Tony Award-winning star suffered from an "epidural hematoma due to blunt impact to the head", which causes bleeding between the skull and the brain's covering.

The bleeding, according to the Associated Press, "is often caused by a skull fracture, and it can quickly produce a blood clot that puts pressure on the brain. That pressure can force the brain downward, pressing on the brain stem that controls breathing and other vital functions." Not immediately feeling sick, just like what Natasha experienced after her fall, is something common for patients as "the bleeding may take time to emerge," the AP continued.

Dr. Keith Siller of New York University Langone Medical Center told AP that an epidural hematoma "is a very treatable condition if you're aware of what the problem is and the patient is quickly transferred to a hospital. But there is very little time to correct this." In Natasha's case, she might have survived should she receive immediate treatment.

Natasha Richardson fell during a private skiing lesson on a beginners trail at the Mont Tremblant Resort in the Canadian province of Quebec on Monday, March 16. She didn't wear helmet when the incident occurred, yet admitted feeling fine and showed no visible injury on her body. However, about an hour later she complained of headache.

Taken to the Centre Hospitalier Laurentien in Ste-Agathe, she was later transferred to Hopital du Sacre-Coeur in Montreal. Her husband, actor , who was in Toronto shooting his film "", quickly rushed to her side. Held overnight at Hopital du Sacre-Coeur, she was discharged from the facility on Tuesday, March 17 and flown to N.Y.C. via private jet to be treated at Lenox Hill Hospital, where she was put under life support.

Natasha lost her fight for life Wednesday, March 18, hours after being removed from life support. She is survived by husband Liam and their two sons; Micheal Richard Antonio and Daniel Jack.



Post Your Comments

posted by Davemathew on Mar 29, 2009
Canada cares responsible for Richardson's death? FY (Canadian reply) Search this title on YOU TUBE
posted by BC on Mar 23, 2009
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of this classy, beautiful lady. Rest in peace Natasha and godspeed. We all love you and will miss you.
posted by rose on Mar 23, 2009
I was deeply shocked & saddened by the tragic loss on one of my finest favourite actress...i'll miss u alot....
posted by tippytoes on Mar 21, 2009
quemdelune:I'm not God, but I assure you, you DO impact someone's life..Wanna talk? I'm also not a religious nut, just feel the same way you do.
posted by saddened on Mar 21, 2009
A tragic accident. natasha will be sorely missed both on and off screen. I send my heartfelt condolences to her sons and those left behind. I will always remember your beautiful, happy smile.
posted by DJ on Mar 21, 2009
A very tragic loss to her family,friends and fans.One of those things that remind us just how transient life is.Very sad. DJ
posted by lasmarn1@aol.com on Mar 20, 2009
This condition should've had a better outcome - did she get prompt treament in Canada? RIP
posted by quemdelune on Mar 20, 2009
death should be a volunteer program.i would gladly have taken her place. i'm in my 50's single, no family, i impact no one's life. if god is reading this please post comment.
posted by fefe51261 on Mar 20, 2009
Iwas deeply saddened as I got off from work on tuesday morning turning my radio on in my car and hearing of miss richardsons accident.I remember her from the parent trap which I have watched at least 100 times.In that movie she truly a classy lady who seemed to love people and her profession.
posted by Condolences on Mar 20, 2009
husband Liam and two sons; Micheal Richard Antonio and Daniel Jack. Wishing you all well . So sorry for your misfourtune, She will be loved & remembered & missed by us all.. ~ jimoerike

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