Abstract
RATIONALE: Traumatic spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare clinical condition. Here, we present an extraordinary case of recurrent SEH accompanied by thoracolumbar spine fractures resulting from minor trauma, and provide evidence-based recommendations for the surgical management strategies in this unique scenario. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 71-year-old female patient presented with back pain after a fall. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an SEH with L2 vertebral compression fracture. Following unsuccessful conservative treatment, percutaneous vertebroplasty was performed at the 2nd lumbar vertebra under local anesthesia. Two years later, the patient experienced another fall and was diagnosed with spinal hematoma with L1 vertebral compression fractures. DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with recurrent osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture accompanying SEH. OUTCOMES: After 1 week of conservative treatment, notable improvement of limbs numbness was observed. The patient ultimately underwent L1 vertebroplasty surgery. The patient was discharged smoothly on the third postoperative day and made a full recovery after 4 months. LESSONS: SEH is a rare clinical finding that can occur even after a minor trauma in the elderly. It is worth noting that osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with asymptomatic or stable intraspinal hematoma, is not considered to be a contraindication for percutaneous vertebroplasty. And percutaneous vertebroplasty is a safe and effective treatment for osteoporotic compression fractures with asymptomatic SEH.