"Swirl Sign" in Extradural Hematoma

Abstract

"Swirl sign" is a relatively uncommon sign, seen on noncontrast CT scan in patients of head trauma who develop extradural hematoma. It has 2 components: hyperacute, which represents ongoing active intracranial bleed, and acute, which comprises surrounding hyperattenuated clotted blood. The importance of early identification of this sign by surgeons and aggressive surgical management might have a bearing on the prognosis and survival of the patients, as emphasized here by 2 clinical scenarios. The clinical implication is that identification of the swirl sign suggests expanding extradural hematoma with ongoing active bleed, warranting aggressive surgical management.

Keywords: Extradural hematoma; Head trauma; Swirl sign.