Delayed refers to any clinical event, diagnosis, complication, or intervention that occurs later than expected based on typical timelines, protocols, or physiological responses.
📌 Clinical Usage
Delayed bleeding: hemorrhage that develops hours or days after trauma or surgery.
Delayed awakening: failure to regain consciousness in the expected postoperative or post-ictal window.
Delayed diagnosis: identification of a condition after a clinically significant or avoidable time lapse.
⚠️ Why It Matters
May indicate evolving pathology (e.g., hematoma expansion, edema).
Often requires heightened surveillance and repeat imaging.
Associated with increased morbidity if not anticipated.
🧠 Common Examples in Neurosurgery
Delayed intracranial hemorrhage in anticoagulated patients after mild TBI.
Delayed ischemic deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Delayed hydrocephalus after tumor resection or meningitis.
✅ Best Practice
Anticipate based on risk factors (age, anticoagulation, comorbidities).
Include in discharge instructions and follow-up plans.
Use structured observation protocols (e.g., 6–24h CT control in TBI).