Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2016 · DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2016.7 · Published: July 7, 2016
Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a rare condition that is characterized by the symptoms of spinal cord compression. An 82-year-old male patient with a history of atrial fibrillation diagnosed 10 years ago and treated with warfarin suddenly started experiencing sudden neck pain. After surgical decompression and inpatient rehabilitation, the patient experienced significant improvement in muscle strength and mobility.
Prompt diagnosis of SSEH is critical to differentiate it from other conditions such as stroke, ensuring timely intervention and potentially better neurological outcomes.
Inpatient rehabilitation programs specializing in spinal cord injury can significantly improve functional outcomes for patients recovering from SSEH after surgical intervention.
Anticoagulant therapy should be carefully managed in patients presenting with neurological symptoms suggestive of spinal cord compression due to the increased risk of epidural hematoma.