Extradural Hematoma

Extradural hematoma (EDH) is an accumulation of blood between the inner table of the skull and the dura mater, typically secondary to traumatic head injury. Clinical features include headache, loss of consciousness, and a “lucid interval” followed by neurological deterioration. Pathophysiology involves arterial bleeding, most often from the middle meningeal artery, leading to increased intracranial pressure and potential herniation. Diagnosis is made with emergent CT imaging, revealing a biconvex hyperdense lesion. Management is primarily surgical evacuation for significant hematomas, with supportive care for smaller lesions; prognosis is favorable with prompt intervention but poor if diagnosis or treatment is delayed.