Summary Spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma (SSEH) is a rare clinical condition with unknown aetiology. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are paramount because of the risk of permanent neurological deficits without appropriate intervention. We described a case of a 48-year-old man presenting with complete quadriplegia and hypoesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed cervical cord compression due to a haematoma posterior to the spinal cord. Surgical decompression and evacuation of the haematoma was performed within 12 hours after admission to the authors' hospital. Both the patient's motor and sensory functions recovered soon after the operation. Early surgical decompression for SSEH with neurologic impairment is therefore recommended for the recovery of this patient and also serves as a relevant reference for orthopaedic clinics. Foundation number: CXZZ20140414170821148.
