[Epidural hematoma. Myth and reality, based on 3 exemplary cases].

The acute epidural hematoma is a real surgical emergency with a good outcome if the operation is performed in reasonable delays. In 1994, too many young patients eventually died or were left with major disabilities, because of an unacceptable and almost always avoidable loss of time. We do emphasize some rules which have to be followed to avoid catastrophic events.