Extradural haematoma

Abstract

In a series of fatal head injuries which have been reported, 102 people died within the first 24 hr. In India, 30% of all fatal road accidents die on the spot. During the first hour or two, the primary neuronal injury is the only active lesion. With the possible exception of missible injuries, it is almost impossible to inflict a sizable damage to the brain without a change in consciousness. There are four stages which can be easily recognized as an extradural mass progresses toward death. Of 9,000 cases of acute head injury which were admitted to the neurosurgical ward in Hyderabad, 98 extradural haematomas were encountered. This is a classic type of injury which may have lucid period. It does not occur as commonly as one would anticipate. Subacute extradurals may require 48 hr before they manifest themselves. Early recognition and correction will lead it to a better result. The authors's preference is for immediate burrhole exploration bilateraly and multiple if needed. The treatment of extradural haematomas is surgical. The mortality in the series reported is 15%. It has been stated that a mortality over 25% is indicative of poor organisation. (De Saussure - Memphis - USA)