Multilevel acute spinal epidural hematoma in a patient with chronic renal failure--case report

A 47-year-old female with diabetic nephropathy presented with acute onset of severe back pain and progressive weakness in both lower extremities. Neuroimaging revealed a spinal epidural hematoma extending from the T-3 vertebra to the sacrum. Removal of all or every other lamina on levels with epidural hematoma and emergent evacuation of the hematoma were planned. T-9 and T-10 laminectomies were performed, but excessive bleeding during the operation prompted us to abandon the procedure. Plasma and desmopressin administration controlled the bleeding from the drain 8 hours after the operation. Follow-up neuroimaging one month later revealed total resolution of the hematoma with improved neurological status. Acute spinal epidural hematomas extending over more than 15 segments are extremely rare and the surgical treatment is still challenging. Coexisting hemorrhagic diathesis creates more problems. Conservative treatment may be the best option.