Can spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma be managed safely without operation? a report of four cases

The presentation, investigation, and management of four patients with spont aneous spinal epidural haematoma is presented. In each case the diagnosis w as made by MRI. At the time of diagnosis spontaneous recovery had started i n each patient and therefore they were all treated conservatively. In each case follow up MRI confirmed rapid reduction in the size of the haematoma a nd no underlying cause was demonstrated. The presentation, diagnosis, and r ationale for treatment are discussed. Conservative treatment is safe in som e cases of spinal epidural haematoma if early neurological recovery has sta rted.