Rapid resolution of a traumatic venous epidural hematoma in a 3-year-old child: illustrative case

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Neuroradiology

Background:

• Posterior fossa epidural hematomas are rare in children following head trauma.
• Optimal management strategies and radiological follow-up timelines remain debated.

Observation:

• A 3-year-old child with a posterior fossa epidural hematoma was managed conservatively with analgesics and antiemetics.
• The child remained neurologically stable throughout the observation period without any deficits.

Findings:

• Magnetic resonance imaging revealed near-complete hematoma resorption within 60 hours of diagnosis.
• Resorption occurred significantly faster than typically expected for such injuries.

Implications:

• Conservative management is a viable option for pediatric posterior fossa epidural hematomas.
• Rapid resorption suggests that timely follow-up imaging can confirm resolution, potentially avoiding surgical drainage.