Posterior fossa epidural hematomas in children: clinical experience with 40 cases.

OBJECT: Traumatic posterior fossa epidural hematoma (PFEDH) is rare, but among children it may have a slightly higher incidence. With the widespread use of CT scanning, the diagnosis of PFEDH can be established more accurately, leading to an increased incidence of the lesion and possibly to a better patient prognosis. This study presents 40 pediatric cases with PFEDH.

METHODS: The authors assessed the type of trauma, clinical findings on admission, Glasgow Coma Scale scores, CT findings (thickness of the hematoma, bone fracture, compression of the fourth ventricle, and ventricle enlargement), type of treatment, clinical course, and prognosis. Early postoperative CT scans (within the first 6 hours) were obtained and reviewed in all surgical cases.

RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients underwent surgery and 11 patients received conservative therapy and close follow-up. All patients fared well, and there was no surgical mortality or morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on the data in this large series, the authors conclude that PFEDH in children can be treated in experienced centers with excellent outcome, and there is no need to avoid surgery when it is indicated.