Bleeding into the space between the inner surface of the skull and the external surface of the dura mater, the outer layer of the meninges. Extradural haemorrhage usually results from a blow to the side of the head that fractures the skull and ruptures an artery running over the surface of the dura mater. A haematoma (collection of clotted blood) forms and enlarges, causing an increase in pressure inside the skull and resulting in symptoms several hours or even days after the injury. Symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, vomiting, paralysis affecting one side of the body, and seizures. Untreated, extradural haemorrhage may be life-threatening. CT scanning or MRI confirms the diagnosis. Surgical treatment consists of craniotomy, draining the blood clot, and clipping the ruptured blood vessel.
Extradural haemorrhage |
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