Research Article
Acute Post-traumatic Intracranial Hematomas at the Bogodogo Uniersity Hospital, Burkina Faso: Management of 141 Cases
Henri Lankoande*
,
Haro Yacouba,
Joseph Biogo,
Ouedraogo Narcisse Wendpuire Mike,
Inoussa Zoungrna,
Bonkian Gnounsiniyapoue,
Tall Mohamed,
Denlewende Sylvain Zabsonre
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, December 2026
Pages:
15-21
Received:
4 August 2026
Accepted:
17 August 2026
Published:
11 September 2026
Abstract: Introduction: Acute post-traumatic intracranial hematomas constitute a major neurosurgical emergency due to the high risk of death or neurological sequelae. Their management relies on early diagnosis, primarily via computed tomography (CT) scan, combined with appropriate medical and/or surgical treatment. In Burkina Faso, data concerning this condition remain limited. Objective: To describe the epidemiological, clinical, radiological, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of acute post-traumatic intracranial hematomas treated at the Bogodogo University Hospital Center. Patients and methods: This was a retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the Surgical Emergency, Anesthesia-Resuscitation and Orthopedics-Traumatology departments of the Bogodogo University Hospital between July 14, 2023 and July 13, 2025. All patients with an acute post-traumatic intracranial hematoma confirmed by CT scan were included. Results: Among 915 recorded head injuries, 141 patients presented with an acute post-traumatic intracranial hematoma, representing a frequency of 15.4%. The mean age was 31.5 ± 15.8 years, with a male predominance (68.8%; sex ratio = 2.2). Road traffic accidents accounted for 64.5% of the injury mechanisms. The mean time to admission was 7 hours. All patients underwent a brain CT scan. Acute subdural hematomas were the most frequent anatomical form (31.2%), followed by extradural hematomas (24.8%) and intraparenchymal hematomas (23.4%). 91.5% of patients received exclusively medical management, while 8.5% underwent neurosurgical intervention. The hospital mortality rate was 7.1%. Conclusion: Acute post-traumatic intracranial hematomas are a common condition in young adults involved in traffic accidents. Improved prehospital management, rapid access to brain imaging, and enhanced neurosurgical capabilities could help reduce mortality and long-term consequences.
Abstract: Introduction: Acute post-traumatic intracranial hematomas constitute a major neurosurgical emergency due to the high risk of death or neurological sequelae. Their management relies on early diagnosis, primarily via computed tomography (CT) scan, combined with appropriate medical and/or surgical treatment. In Burkina Faso, data concerning this condi...
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Research Article
Surgical Management of Cauda Equina Syndrome Due to Disc Herniation at Brazzaville University Hospital (2022-2025): About 16 Cases
Leon Boukassa*,
Roland Bertile Banga-Mouss,
Sinclair Brice Kinata Bambino,
Norbert Lamini,
Rel Gerald Boukaka Kala,
Olivier Brice Ngackosso Olivier,
Daphtone Nkouala Kidede,
Hugues Brieux Ekouele Mbaki
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, December 2026
Pages:
22-26
Received:
12 September 2026
Accepted:
4 October 2026
Published:
23 October 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijn.20261002.12
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Abstract: Introduction: Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a dreaded complication of lumbar disc herniations, requiring rapid surgical management. The few studies conducted in low-income countries note a failure to meet this requirement. We conducted this study to describe the management of patients operated on for this condition in the neurosurgery department of the Brazzaville University Hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study conducted between January 2022 and December 2025, involving 16 patients operated on for CES due to disc herniation, confirmed by imaging (CT or MRI). Pre- and postoperative severity was assessed using the SSCES (Scoring System for Cauda Equina Syndrome). Patients were followed up at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Results: The mean age was 48.2 years (range 39-68), with a sex ratio (M/F) of 3. Patients were seen on average 14.7 days (range 7-21) after the onset of signs. CES was complete in 56.2% and incomplete in 43.7%. Disc herniation was located at L4-L5 in 50%, L3-L4 and L5-S1 in 18.7% each, and L2-L3 in 12.5%. Discectomy was performed after laminectomy in 56.2% of patients. Patient outcomes were satisfactory, with the number of patients having an excellent or good SSCES score increasing from 2 preoperatively to 13 patients at the 6th postoperative month. Conclusion: The management of CES due to disc herniation at Brazzaville University Hospital is marked by diagnostic and therapeutic delays which impact neurological recovery. It is therefore important to raise awareness among healthcare providers and enable rapid patient access to imaging and surgery.
Abstract: Introduction: Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a dreaded complication of lumbar disc herniations, requiring rapid surgical management. The few studies conducted in low-income countries note a failure to meet this requirement. We conducted this study to describe the management of patients operated on for this condition in the neurosurgery department o...
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