An epidural hematoma is usually traumatic in origin and, when symptomatic, is generally a neurosurgical emergency. It is most often a traumatic hemorrhage caused by an injury to the middle meningeal artery, resulting in bleeding into the epidural space.
Location
Epidural hematomas typically occur in the temporoparietal region. Epidural hematomas in the posterior fossa account for approximately 5% of all epidural hematomas1. Approximately 85% of epidural hematomas are associated with a skull fracture2.
Imaging
Epidural hematomas can be optimally visualized on both CT and MRI. CT imaging provides better visualization of bony structures, so fractures, which are frequently associated with an epidural hematoma, can often be demonstrated more clearly.
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