Posterior fossa extradural hematoma.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To review the clinical profile, radiology and treatment of Pediatric posterior fossa extradural hematoma (PPFEDH) and evaluate the outcome. METHODS: Posterior fossa extradural hematoma (PFEDH) is an uncommon trauma sequel and in pediatric age group is still rare. This article discusses 18 cases of PPFEDH seen over a period of 8 years and review the pertinent medical literature. Only a few studies discuss PPFEDH and in most of them outcome has been good. Trauma has been subtle and fracture of occipital bone is seen in majority of cases. Treatment has been operative in majority of the cases. RESULTS: Most of the patients were diagnosed only on high index of suspicion with a history of trauma on the occipit, fracture of the occipital bone and persistent symptoms suggestive of increasing intracranial pressure and posterior fossa space occupying lesion. CT scanning was done liberally to confirm the suspicion and the patients with hematoma were treated aggressively by surgical evacuation with good recovery in most of them. CONCLUSION: Authors suggest an aggressive approach in the event of PPFEDH. However some patients can be managed conservatively but they should be closely observed for clinical manifestation and CT scan routinely to evaluate the progress of hematoma radiologically. A strict criterion should be followed in choosing such patients for conservative treatment as highlighted in the study.