ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the various types of intracranial haematomas including extradural (epidural) haematoma (EDH) and subdural haematoma (SDH). EDH occurs as a result of focal impact to the head. The most frequent causes are falls, road traffic incidents, in which there is a higher incidence of other brain injuries, and increasing assaults. Death occurs in EDH primarily as a result of increasing pressure within the cranial cavity and brainstem compression. The hair may both hide and alter the external injury. Abrasions are classically seen with ground contact. Lacerating injury may be seen where injury has occurred with an implement such as a stick, hammer or other weapon. The usual site for EDH is the temporoparietal area. The dura is stripped from the inner aspect of the skull and becomes separated by the haematoma. Areas of contusional injury may be seen either in association with a fracture site or beneath an area of impact.
