Epidural Hematoma: A Prospective Analysis of Morbidity and Mortality in 173 Patients Hematoma epidural: Uma análise prospectiva de morbidade e mortalidade em 173 pacientes

Objectives A few recent studies have focused on epidural hematomas (EDHs) t hat are routine in emergency rooms. The study was to evaluate the late st situation of affected patients by encephalic trauma associated with EDH in our serv ice. Methods Prospective study between September 1, 2003 and May 30, 2009. Data were computed regarding age, sex, trauma mechanism, quali fi cation by Glasgow coma scale admission, presence of anisocoria, and evaluation by th e recovery of Glasgow scale high, with all patients by computed tomography (CT) scan. Results Among the 173 analyzed patients, mortality reached 20 patient s (11.5%). Mortality was higher in the subgroup of 76 patients (44%) admi tted with Glasgow coma scale (GCS  8) with 17 deceased, corresponding to 85% of total deaths. Prevalence of male subjects (140 cases, 81%) with bruises located in the tem poral, frontal and parietal regions; 147 (85%) patients underwent neurosurgic al treatment by cranioto- my. The worst prognosis was in patients with hematomas of higher-vo lume (50 mL), midline structures deviations greater than 1.5 mm and basal ci sterns CSF closed. Conclusion The authors emphasize the correct indication of neurosurgery a nd the postoperative intensive care unit (ICU) as key factors for succes s in the treatment of patients with EDHs.