epidural space

anatomy

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The epidural space is an anatomical region located between the skull and the dura mater, which is the outermost of the three protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This space is significant because it contains meningeal arteries, and damage to these, particularly the middle meningeal artery, can lead to bleeding and the formation of an epidural hematoma.1

The meninges, consisting of the pia mater, arachnoid, and dura mater, protect the central nervous system. The epidural space is one of three potential spaces where blood can collect, alongside the subdural space (between the dura mater and arachnoid) and the subarachnoid space (between the arachnoid and pia mater).21

In medical contexts, "epidural" also refers to an injection of anesthetic into this space, commonly used for pain relief in the lower back region.3

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meninges
Dura mater
…two sheets separated by the epidural space, which is filled with veins. The outer of these two sheets constitutes the periosteum of the vertebral canal. The inner sheet is separated from the arachnoid by the narrow subdural space, which is filled with fluid. In a few places, the subdural space…
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…two sheets separated by the epidural space, which is filled with veins. The outer of these two sheets constitutes the periosteum of the vertebral canal. The inner sheet is separated from the arachnoid by the narrow subdural space, which is filled with fluid. In a few places, the subdural space…
Read More