P A Pahapill1, S P Lownie. 1. Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In cases of acute spontaneous epidural hematoma producing neurological deficits, emergency surgical evacuation is the standard treatment. METHODS: Such a case is presented in which complete resolution of neurological deficits occurred without surgical intervention. RESULTS: This is the fifth reported case of complete recovery in a patient managed conservatively. In most reports, significant and sustained neurological recovery had occurred with 12 hours of impairment of walking. CONCLUSION: In cases of acute spontaneous spiral epidural hematoma in which neurological deterioration is followed by early and sustained recovery, non-operative therapy may be considered.
BACKGROUND: In cases of acute spontaneous epidural hematoma producing neurological deficits, emergency surgical evacuation is the standard treatment. METHODS: Such a case is presented in which complete resolution of neurological deficits occurred without surgical intervention. RESULTS: This is the fifth reported case of complete recovery in a patient managed conservatively. In most reports, significant and sustained neurological recovery had occurred with 12 hours of impairment of walking. CONCLUSION: In cases of acute spontaneous spiral epidural hematoma in which neurological deterioration is followed by early and sustained recovery, non-operative therapy may be considered.