Extradural space

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The extradural (epidural) space is a potential space between the cranial bones and the endosteal layer of the dura mater, which is otherwise adherent to the cranial bone.

Gross anatomy

The extradural space is a potential space inside the cranial vault and is not normally appreciable unless there is an underlying pathology .

This is in contrast to the epidural space of the spinal cord which contains epidural fat, lymphatics, blood vessels, and nerve roots . The two spaces are not continuous.

Meningeal arteries exist within the cranial extradural space. These include branches of the middle meningeal artery . These vessels may be damaged in trauma and can lead to a collection of blood known as an extradural hematoma.

Related pathology