Spinal epidural haematoma: MRI-aided diagnosis.
Spinal epidural haematoma is a rare cause of spinal cord compression. It is most commonly attributed to trauma and coagulation disorders. We report a case of a 64 year-old man with thrombocytopaenia who presented with a traumatic epidural haematoma who p resented with right hemiparesis which progressed to complete tetraplegia. MR of the cervical spine showed an epidural collection on the posterior aspect of the cord throughout the cervical spine. The patient underwent C1-C7 laminectomy and decompression. Postoperatively, the patient has improved gradually and has power of grade 3 (Medical Research Council classification of power) in all 4 limbs at 2-month follow-up. MRI is an important modality in the early diagnosis of spinal epidural haematomas and can facilitate emergent decompressive surgery which offers the best chance of neurological improvement.
Ng
Wai Hoe
WH
Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore.
Lim
C C Tchoyoson
CC
Ng
Puay Yong
PY
Tan
Kheng Kooi
KK
D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D006407:Hematoma, Epidural, Cranial / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007796:Laminectomy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000209:etiology