We have reported a case of cervical spinal epidural hematoma of 61 year-old male, who had suffered from chronic renal failure and received hemodialysis therapy for fifteen years. He was referred to our clinic because of neck pain and weakness of extremities. He showed incomplete tetraplegic state and was bed-ridden. Myelogram, Isovist CT, and MRI suggested the presence of cervical epidural hematoma in the ventral side from C
3 to C
7. Twenty-nine hours after the onset of symptoms, a total laminectomy from C
3 to C
7 was performed. The source of the hematoma was not identified. The patient showed good recovery and became able to walk with a cane. He was discharged about two months after operation.
Spinal epidural hematoma is a relatively rare condition which suddenly develops symptoms of spinal cord compression. Myelography, Isovist CT scan, and MRI have definitive diagnostic value. When this type of hematoma is suspected, these procedures should be performed as soon as possible for early diagnosis and appropriate surgical treatment.
View full abstract