Frequency of Extradural Hematoma Among Patients with Delayed Presentation After Head Injury.

Original Article

Abstract

Background: Extradural hematoma is a potentially life-threatening complication of head injury, requiring timely diagnosis and management. Delayed hospital presentation may increase the likelihood of missed or clinically significant hematoma.

Objective: To assess the frequency of delayed onset extradural hematoma (EDH) in patients presenting with head injuries.

Methodology: 150 patients presenting with head injuries and skull fractures. The patients were 18 years or older of either gender. Patients were managed surgically or conservatively depending on the condition of the patients. Delayed presentation was defined as 6 hours or more. All the patients were assessed for the presence of EDH on CT scan.

Results: Mean age was 28.93 ± 6.64 years. Male patients were 105 (70%) and 45 (30%) were female patients. The frequency of extradural hematoma was 14 (9.3%). A significant association was observed between EDH and both lower GCS score at presentation and a delayed time to presentation > 8 hours.

Conclusion: The frequency of delayed onset of traumatic extradural hematoma in patients who were presented with head injuries in our study was 9.3%.