[Delayed evolution of post-traumatic contralateral extracerebral hematoma after evacuation of initial hematoma]

105 patients over a 5-year period underwent emergency evacuation of traumatic intracranial hematomas. Seven (6.7%) developed delayed contralateral extracerebral hematomas (5 epidural and 2 subdural hematomas). These hematomas were insignificant or not present on initial computed tomography (CT) scan, but repeat CT scan after craniotomy showed sizable hemorrhage. In one patient, neurological deterioration heralded the delayed onset. In one case, intraoperative ultrasound imaging disclosed an epidural hematoma. Ultrasound examination is recommended in cases with a skull fracture contralateral to the initial hemorrhage.