Acute Epidural Hematoma in Neonate Following Attempted Vacuum-Assisted Delivery. Case Report

An acute epidural hematoma (AEDH) has been reported to occur as a serious morbidity in association with a vacuum-assisted delivery. We experienced a neonate case with an AEDH who was delivered by emergency cesarean section after an attempted vacuum extraction procedure. Magnetic resonance imaging suggested a liquefied hematoma of fluid-fluid levels, with enlargement to a maximum thickness of 18 mm and lateral ventricular compression. Absence of symptoms indicating increased intracranial pressure, such as a tense anterior fontanelle, increased head circumference, seizure, and apnea, led to successful conservative therapy. Less-invasive treatment options and conservative management to avoid a craniotomy for an AEDH occurring in neonates are also discussed.