Decompressive surgery for acute subdural haematoma leading to contralateral extradural haematoma: a report of two casesand review of literature

Abstract

Development of a contralateral epidural haematoma during or immediately after cranial surgery is a well-described entity. However, in a case of acute subdural haematoma where the brain is usually tense, postoperative development of contralateral extradural haematoma is uncommon. We report two cases of contralateral extradural haematoma after decompressive surgery for acute subdural haematoma. We recommend routine postoperative CT immediately after cranial surgery for head trauma. This would help in timely detection and treatment of such a complication.

Key words:

• Brain swelling
• contralateral extradural haematoma
• skull fracture
• subdural haematoma