Explanation
Spontaneous spinal epidural abscesses are critical orthopaedic/neurosurgical emergencies. They most commonly occur in the thoracic spine, followed by the lumbar and cervical regions. This is thought to be related to the larger relative size of the epidural space in the thoracic region and local venous anatomy (Batson's plexus). The most common causative organism, accounting for over 60% of cases, is Staphylococcus aureus. Reference: Rockwood and Green's Fractures in Adults, 9th Edition.