Background
Epidural hematoma (EDH) is an easily treated form of head injury that is often associated with a good prognosis. In rare instances, such hemorrhages can be spontaneous. Advances in contemporary CT imaging have made confirmation of an EDH diagnosis rapid and accurate. Although epidural hematomas are relatively uncommon (approximately 2% of all patients with head injuries and < 10% of those who are comatose), they should always be considered in evaluation of a serious head injury. Patients with epidural hematomas who meet surgical criteria and receive prompt surgical intervention can have an excellent prognosis if there is limited underlying primary brain damage from the traumatic event.