Outcomes of Evacuating Subacute Extradural Hematoma Through a Minicraniectomy: A 5-Year Study

Abstract Background  Extradural hematoma (EDH) is a hematoma between the dura and the inner surface of the skull, found in 1 to 3% of all head-injured patients, rising to 9% among the unconscious ones. It is said to be subacute when about 2 to 4 days old. Further enlargement of the burr hole to about 3 to 5 cm wide (minicraniectomy) may allow its total evacuation. Objective  To recommend it as a treatment option, this study aims to evaluate the surgical outcomes of evacuating a subacute EDH through a minicraniectomy. Method  This was a 5-year prospective study in a Nigerian tertiary health institution. Results  In total, 108 patients, consisting of 96 males and 12 females with a male to female ratio of 8:1 were included. Their ages ranged from 10 to 69 years. Etiologies were road traffic accident (RTA, 73.2%), assault (18.5%), and falls (8.3%). Hematoma ages were 2 days (61.1%), 3 days (25%), 4 days (13.9%). GCS were mild (11%), moderate (56%), and severe (33%). Locations were right-sided (59.3%), left-sided (40.7%) with 73.1% in parietotemporal area. Active bleeding was encountered in 15% only. Postoperative complications were seizure (13.9%), death (12%), and surgical site infection (4.6%) among others. Outcomes at 2 weeks were good (83, 76.9%), moderate disability (12, 11.1%), severe disability (10, 9.3%), vegetative (1, 0.9%), and death (2, 1.9%). Conclusion  Considering the significant morbidity and mortality and the need for urgent interventions in EDH, most patients presenting in the subacute acute (2– 4 days) stage can be evacuated via a minicraniectomy with good outcomes.