Spectrum of remote site extradural hematomas following decompressive craniectomy: Does fracture always co-exist?

Abstract

Background: Remote-site extradural hematomas (EDHs) after decompressive-surgeries for traumatic brain injury (TBI) are rarely encountered. Typically, they form contralateral to the injured side, with an overlying fracture. We present a subset which developed EDH immediately after decompressive-hemi-craniectomy for TBI, most without an evidence of fracture, and not limited to contralateral location. Methods: Nine such patients were retrospectively identified. Plausible mechanisms, management issues and outcomes have been discussed. Results: All nine patients were victims of severe-TBI. Six did not have any skull-fractures. Eight showed hemispheric-injuries while one had bifrontal-contusions. In hemispheric-injuries, midline-shift was at least 8 mm except one with midline-shift of 6 mm. The EDH was straddling the midline in 2 (bifrontal-1, bi-occipital-1), and juxtaposed to the previous craniectomy in 1, apart from a contralateral-bleed in 6; all, except one, needed evacuation. In most patients, venous-source of bleed was identified. All had improved from their preoperative Glasgow coma scale (GCS) at follow-up. Conclusion: A fracture need not always co-exist in EDH following decompressive craniectomy. However, an extra-caution is suggested in its presence. Given the need for surgical-evacuation in most patients and an inability to assess immediate postoperative-GCS in severely head-injured, a routine postoperative-computed tomography is recommended to avoid overlooking such potentially treatable condition.