Balancing Bleeding Risk and Thromboembolic Complications in Elderly Chronic Subdural Hematoma Patients Undergoing Burr Hole Trephination : A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study and Literature Review.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) patients using antithrombotic agents (AT) at high risk for cardiovascular disease are increasing. The authors aimed to analyze the factors influencing outcome by targeting patients using AT and to establish a desirable treatment strategy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on data from 462 patients who underwent burr hole trephination (BHT) surgery for CSDH at five hospitals from March 2010 to June 2021. Outcomes included incidence of postoperative acute bleeding, recurrence rate, and morbidity or mortality rate. Patients were divided into the following four groups based on their history of AT use : no AT. Only antiplatelet agents (AP), only anticoagulants (AC), both of AP and AC. In addition, a concurrent literature review was conducted alongside our cohort study. RESULTS: Of 462 patients, 119 (119/462, 25.76%) were using AT. AP prescription did not significantly delay surgery (p=0.318), but AC prescription led to a significant increase in the time interval from admission to operation (p=0.048). After BHT, AP or AC intake significantly increased the period required for an in-dwelling drain (p=0.026 and p=0.037). The use of AC was significantly related to acute bleeding (p=0.044), while the use of AP was not (p=0.808). Use of AP or AC had no significant effect on CSDH recurrence (p=0.517 and p=1.000) or reoperation (p=0.924 and p=1.000). Morbidity was not statistically correlated with use of either AP or AC (p=0.795 and p=0.557, respectively), and there was no significant correlation with mortality for use of these medications (p=0.470 and p=1.000). CONCLUSION: Elderly CSDH patients may benefit from maintenance of AT therapy during BHT due to reduced thromboembolic risk. However, the use of AC necessitates individualized due to potential postoperative bleeding. Careful post-operative monitoring could mitigate prognosis and recurrence impacts.

Endoscopic Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Combined with Inner Subdural Hygroma.

OBJECTIVE: A chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a collection of bloody fluid located in the subdural space and encapsulated by neo-membranes. An inner subdural hygroma (ISH) is observed between the inner membrane of a CSDH and the brain surface. We present six cases of CSDH combined with ISH treated via endoscopy. METHODS: Between 2011 and 2022, among the 107 patients diagnosed with CSDH in our institute, six patients were identified as presenting with CSDH combined with ISH and were included in this study. Preoperative computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed simultaneously, and endoscopic surgery for aspiration of the hematoma was performed in all cases of CSDH combined with ISH. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 71 years (range, 66 to 79). The patients were all male. In two cases, the ISH was not identified on CT, but was clearly seen on MRI in all patients. The inner membrane of the CSDH was tense and bulging after draining of the CSDH in endoscopic view due to the high pressure of the ISH. After fenestration of the inner membrane of the CSDH and aspiration of the ISH, the membrane was sunken down due to the decreasing pressure of the ISH. There was one recurrence in post-operative 2-month follow up. The symptoms improved in all patients after surgery, and there were no surgery-related complications. CONCLUSION: CSDH combined with ISH can be diagnosed on imaging, and endoscopic surgery facilitates safe and effective treatment.

Role of Adjunctive Tranexamic Acid in Facilitating Resolution of Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common neurosurgical disease and generally treated with burr-hole surgery alone. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent that potentially reduces recurrence rates and the residual hematoma volume. However, the role of postoperative TXA medication remains unclear to date. This study aimed to verify the effectiveness of adjunctive TXA in the view of early hematoma resolution. METHODS: Between January 2018 and September 2021, patients with CSDH who underwent burr-hole trephination in a single tertiary institute were reviewed. The study population was divided into three groups, TXA, non-TXA, and antithrombotics (AT) groups, according to the medical history of cardio-cerebrovascular disease and TXA administration. The primary endpoint was CSDH recurrence, defined as re-appearance or re-accumulation of CSDH requiring neurosurgical interventions. The secondary outcome was CSDH resolution, defined as complete or near-complete resorption of the CSDH. The CSDH resolution time and serial changes of hematoma thickness were also investigated. RESULTS: A total of 240 patients was included in the analysis consisting of 185 male and 55 female, with a median age of 74 years. During the median imaging follow-up period of 75 days, 222 patients were reached to the primary or secondary endpoint. TXA was administered as an adjunctive therapy in 41 patients (TXA group, 16.9%) while 114 patients were included in the non-TXA group (47.9%) and 85 were in the AT group. The recurrence rate was the lowest in the TXA group (2.4%), followed by non-TXA (7.0%) and AT (8.2%) groups. However, there was no statistical significance due to the small number of patients with recurrence. CSDH resolution was achieved in 206 patients, and the median estimated time to resolution was significantly faster in the TXA group (p<0.001). Adjunctive TXA administration was a significant positive factor for achieving CSDH resolution (p<0.001). The hematoma thickness was comparable among the three groups at the initial time and after surgery. However, CSDH thickness in the TXA group decreased abruptly in a month and showed a significant difference from that in the other groups (p<0.001). There was no TXA-related adverse event. CONCLUSION: The adjunctive use of TXA after CSDH surgery significantly facilitated the resorption of residual CSDH and resulted in the early CSDH resolution. Adjunctive TXA may be an effective treatment option to reduce recurrence by enhancing CSDH resolution in the selective patients.

Evaluación multimodal del hematoma subdural crónico

Introducción: El hematoma subdural crónico es la complicación tardía más frecuente del trauma craneoencefálico. Su diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento oportuno permiten la evolución favorable y curación de los pacientes. Objetivo: Sistematizar los diferentes ejes de clasificación del hematoma subdural crónico, que permitan la evaluación multimodal con una orientación más precisa de la técnica quirúrgica. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en las principales bases de datos disponibles, centrada en las diferentes clasificaciones clínicas y radiológicas del hematoma subdural crónico y se seleccionaron 26 artículos. Se escogieron las principales clasificaciones y escalas y se aplicaron en 22 pacientes, obteniéndose resultados preliminares. Resultados: Las escalas de evaluación clínica de Bender, Marckwalder y la clasificación de Gordon Firing son las más conocidas, sin embargo, existen clasificaciones tomográficas que tienen en cuenta la densidad, la homogeneidad del hematoma que son de gran importancia en la selección de la técnica quirúrgica. La presencia de membranas y tabiques aparecen solo incluidas dentro de la valoración de la densidad del hematoma. Existen otras con valor predictivo que identifican aquellos factores relacionados con las recurrencias, desde antes de la cirugía, las mismas se consideran un factor de mal pronóstico para la evolución final de los pacientes con este tipo de hematomas. Conclusiones: La evaluación preoperatoria exige de la aplicación de múltiples escalas, la identificación y caracterización de las membranas es importante para personalizar la técnica quirúrgica, en busca de disminuir la morbilidad y mortalidad posoperatoria.

Introduction: Chronic subdural hematoma is the most frequent late complication of cranioencephalic trauma. The early diagnosis and correct treatment allow the recovery of patients. Objective: To systematize the different criteria of classification of chronic subdural hematoma that leads the multimodal evaluation for more effective selection of surgical technique. Methods: A review of literature about chronic subdural hematoma was done in the main database focused on different clinical and radiological classifications and 26 articles were selected. The main classifications and scales were chosen and applied to 22 patients, obtaining preliminary results. Results : Benders, Marckwalder and Gordon Firing scales are the most common, nevertheless there are tomographic classifications that include density, homogeneity of hematoma that are of great importance in the selection of the surgical technique. The presence of membranes and septum are only included in the evaluation of hematoma density. There are some others with predictive value that identify those factors related to recurrences before surgery that are considered a bad prognosis to the final evolution of these patients with this type of hematoma. Conclusions: The previous evaluation to surgery requires the use of different scales, the identification and characterization of membranes are important to select the optimum surgical technique to decrease morbidity and mortality after surgery.

Effects of neuroendoscopic hematoma removal versus soft channel drainage in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of neuroendoscopic hematoma removal versus soft channel drainage in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma. Methods:The clinical data of 102 patients with chronic subdural hematoma who received treatment in Jincheng People's Hospital from May 2018 to May 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into the neuroendoscopy group ( n = 50) and the soft channel group ( n = 52) according to different surgical methods. Perioperative indexes, hematoma clearance rate, China Stroke Scale score, the activity of daily living score, and oxidative stress indexes were compared between the two groups. All patients were followed up for 3 months. The incidence of complications during the follow-up period was calculated. Results:The retention time of the drainage tube in the neuroendoscopy group was shorter than that in the soft channel group [(2.45 ± 0.63) days vs. (3.30 ± 0.78) days, t = 6.06, P < 0.001]. The length of hospital stay in the neuroendoscopy group was shorter than that in the soft channel group [(7.14 ± 1.65) days vs. (9.07 ± 2.11) days, t = 5.15, P < 0.001]. The hematoma clearance rate at postoperative 7 days in the neuroendoscopy group was higher than that in the soft channel group [(93.45 ± 5.50)% vs. (81.86 ± 7.24)%, χ2 = 9.12, P < 0.001]. There were no significant differences in operation time and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (both P > 0.05). At postoperative 30 days, the China Stroke Scale score in the neuroendoscopy group was lower than that in the soft channel group [(12.74 ± 2.23) points vs. (18.67 ± 2.45) points, t = 12.79, P < 0.001]. The activity of daily life score in the neuroendoscopy group was significantly higher than that in the soft channel group [(77.69 ± 7.11) points vs. (91.35 ± 7.25) points, t = 9.60, P < 0.001]. At postoperative 7 days, glutathione peroxidase level in the neuroendoscopy group was significantly lower than that in the soft channel group [(130.75 ± 13.66) U/L vs. (148.60 ± 14.64) U/L, t = 6.37, P < 0.001]. Malondialdehyde level in the neuroendoscopy group was significantly lower than that in the soft channel group [(5.11 ± 0.65) nmol/L vs. (6.19 ± 0.74) nmol/L, t = 7.83, P < 0.001]. Superoxide dismutase level in the neuroendoscopy group was significantly higher than that in the soft channel group [(275.60 ± 22.33) U/L vs. (254.60 ± 18.55) U/L, t = 5.15, P < 0.001]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications between the two groups ( P > 0.05). Conclusion:Compared with soft channel drainage, neuroendoscopic hematoma removal can obtain better short-term curative effects and less oxidative stress response in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma. Neuroendoscopic hematoma removal does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications and is highly safe.

A Radiological Assessment of Chronic Subdural Hematomas.

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), which generally occurs in elderly patients, is a frequently diagnosed condition in neurosurgical departments. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the most preferred diagnostic modalities for CSDH assessment. With early diagnosis and adequate management, CSDH may show favorable prognosis in majority of the patients; however, recurrence after surgery can occur in a significant number of patients. The recently increasing number of CSDH studies could reveal the prognostic factors affecting CSDH recurrence. Particularly, radiological characteristics regarding the internal architecture of CSDH are considered closely associated with recurrence in surgically treated CSDH patients. In this literature review, we evaluated the various diagnostic modalities of CSDH and its radiological characteristics on CT and MRI. Furthermore, we summarized the prognostic factors of recurrence for the hematoma type based on the radiological findings.

Rapid Spontaneous Resolution of Contralateral Lentiform Acute Subdural Hematoma After Burr Hole Trephination for Chronic Subdural Hematoma.

Although rare, acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) may occur after burr hole trephination (BHT) for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). It usually occurs in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the burr hole site and rarely in the hemisphere contralateral to the burr hole site. On computed tomography (CT), SDH is usually crescent-shaped and occasionally lentiform or biconvex, which can be misdiagnosed as epidural hematoma (EDH). In rare cases, ASDH may resolve spontaneously and rapidly. Here, we report a case of rapid spontaneous resolution of contralateral lentiform ASDH after BHT for CSDH in a patient with brain atrophy. A 55-year-old man developed left CSDH 2 months after traumatic brain injury. Left BHT was performed, and a lentiform hematoma, presumed to be EDH, was found in the right frontal region on the CT scan acquired immediately after BHT. On the CT scan acquired 12 hours later, the lentiform hematoma disappeared and spread along the hemisphere. It was presumed to be ASDH. To prevent contralateral ASDH after BHT, slow decompression and minimal gentle or no irrigation should be performed during BHT, particularly in patients with brain atrophy.

Clinical Outcome of Patients Over 90 Years of Age Treated for Chronic Subdural Hematoma.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common pathology in daily neurosurgical practice and incidence increases with age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors and surgical outcome of CSDH in patients aging over 90 years compared with a control group of patients aging under 90 years. METHODS: This study reviewed 25 patients with CSDH aged over 90 years of age treated in our department. This group was compared with a younger group of 25 patients aged below their eighties. At admission past medical history was recorded concerning comorbidities (hypertension, dementia, ictus cerebri, diabetes, and heart failure or attack). History of alcohol abuse, anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy, head trauma and seizures were analyzed. Standard neurological examination and Markwalder score at admission, 48 hours after surgery and 1-6 months follow-up, radiologic data including location and CSDH maximum thickness were also evaluated. RESULTS: Their mean age was 92.8 years and the median was 92.4 years (range, 90-100 years). In older group, the Markwalder evaluation at one month documented the complete recovery of 24 patients out of 25 without statistical difference with the younger group. This data was confirmed at 6-month follow-up. One patient died from cardiovascular failure 20 days after surgery. The presence of comorbidities, risk factors (antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulant therapy, history of alcohol abuse, and head trauma), preoperative symptoms, mono or bilateral CSDH, maximum thickness of hematoma, surgical time and recurrence were similar and statistically not significant in both groups. CONCLUSION: In this study, we demonstrate that surgery for very old patients above 90 years of age affected by CSDH is safe and allows complete recovery. Comparing two groups of patients above and under 90 years old we found that complication rate and recovery were similar in both groups.

Clinical Characteristics and Current Managements for Patients with Chronic Subdural Hematoma : A Retrospective Multicenter Pilot Study in the Republic of Korea.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease in neurosurgical departments, but optimal perioperative management guidelines have not yet been established. We aimed to assess the current clinical management and outcomes for CSDH patients and identify prognostic factors for CSDH recurrence. METHODS: We enrolled a total of 293 consecutive patients with CSDH who underwent burr hole craniostomy at seven institutions in 2018. Clinical and surgery-related characteristics and surgical outcomes were analyzed. The cohort included 208 men and 85 women. RESULTS: The median patient age was 75 years. Antithrombotic agents were prescribed to 105 patients. History of head trauma was identified in 59% of patients. Two hundred twenty-seven of 293 patients (77.5%) had unilateral hematoma and 46.1% had a homogenous hematoma type. About 70% of patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia, and 74.7% underwent a single burr hole craniostomy surgery. Recurrence requiring surgery was observed in 17 of 293 patients (5.8%), with a median of 32 days to recurrence. The postoperative complication rate was 4.1%. In multivariate analysis, factors associated with CSDH recurrence were separated hematoma type (odds ratio, 3.906; p=0.017) and patient who underwent surgery under general anesthesia had less recurrence (odds ratio, 0.277; p=0.017). CONCLUSION: This is the first retrospective multicenter generalized cohort pilot study in the Republic of Korea as a first step towards the development of Korean clinical practice guidelines for CSDH. The type of hematoma and anesthesia was associated with CSDH recurrence. Although the detailed surgical method differs depending on the institution, the surgical treatment of CSDH was effective. Further studies may establish appropriate management guidelines to minimize CSDH recurrence.

Caracterización tomográfica de las membranas en pacientes con hematoma subdural crónico

Introducción: El hematoma subdural crónico es un hematoma encapsulado por dos membranas interna y externa. Existen diferentes clasificaciones imagenológicas que incluyen las características de estas lesiones, pero la presencia de las membranas y sus características es un aspecto poco descrito. Objetivo: Describir las características tomográficas de las membranas de los hematomas subdurales crónicos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en el Servicio de Neurocirugía en conjunto con el Servicio de Imagenología, del Hospital Universitario Manuel Ascunce Domenech durante el año 2021. Se incluyeron 20 pacientes adultos que fueron operados con el diagnóstico de hematoma subdural crónico. Las membranas se caracterizaron de acuerdo con su densidad, grosor, número de capas, morfología y extensión. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes de más de 65 años del sexo masculino, con hematomas unilaterales más frecuentes del lado izquierdo. El volumen promedio fue de 150 ml y el diámetro fue de 3 cm. Fueron más frecuentes las membranas finas, hiperdensas, incompletas, de una sola capa y la morfología fue variable. Conclusiones: Las membranas que conforman el hematoma subdural crónico pueden observarse en la tomografía axial computarizada. Se han encontrado diferentes tipos de membranas de acuerdo con su densidad, grosor, morfología, extensión y presencia de tabiques. La presencia de una membrana gruesa o fina con tabiques, puede tener indicación de una craneotomía que permita la resección cuidadosa de la membrana parietal y la apertura suficiente de la visceral para facilitar la re expansión cerebral y disminuir la incidencia de recolecciones.

Introduction: Chronic subdural hematoma is a hematoma encapsulated by two internal and external membranes. There are different imaging classifications that include the characteristics of these lesions, but the presence of the membranes and their characteristics is a little described aspect. Objective: To describe the tomographic characteristics of the membranes of chronic subdural hematomas. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in the Neurosurgery service in conjunction with the Imaging service of the Manuel Ascunce Domenech University Hospital during the year 2021. 20 adult patients who underwent surgery with the diagnosis of chronic subdural hematoma were included. The membranes were characterized according to their density, thickness, number of layers, morphology and extension. Results: Male patients over 65 years of age predominated, with more frequent unilateral hematomas on the left side. The average volume was 150 ml and the diameter was 3 cm. Thin, hyperdense, incomplete, single-layer membranes were more frequent, and the morphology was variable. Conclusions: The membranes that make up the chronic subdural hematoma can be seen on computerized axial tomography. Different types of membranes have been found according to their density, thickness, morphology, extension and presence of septa. The presence of a thick or thin membrane with septa may indicate a craniotomy that allows careful resection of the parietal membrane and sufficient opening of the visceral membrane to facilitate brain re-expansion and reduce the incidence of recollections.

Efficacy of neuroendoscopic hematoma removal versus soft channel drainage for chronic subdural hematoma / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of neuroendoscopic hematoma removal versus soft channel drainage in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) and their effects on neurological function and quality of life. Methods:The clinical data of 97 patients with CSDH who received treatment between February 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were divided into group A ( n = 48, soft channel drainage) and group B ( n = 49, neuroendoscopic hematoma removal) according to different surgical methods. Clinical indicators, neurological function, quality of life, and incidence of complications were compared between groups A and B. Results:Operative time, length of hospital stay, and latency to hematoma disappearance in group B were (31.3 ± 2.18) minutes, (8.16 ± 1.32) days, (7.45 ± 1.49) days, which were significantly shorter than those in group A [(35.15 ± 4.32) minutes, (13.18 ± 1.56) days, (11.32 ± 1.88) days, t = 5.53, 17.12, 11.25, all P < 0.001]. At 3 months after surgery, the score of each dimension of SF-36 in each group was increased. The scores of physiological functioning, bodily pain, mental health, general health perceptions, social role functioning, vitality, role limitations due to emotional health, role limitations due to physical health in group B were (84.94 ± 7.25) points, (84.02 ± 6.29) points, (82.85 ± 8.16) points, (84.36 ± 9.15) points, (83.51 ± 10.39) points, (82.68 ± 8.36) points, (84.93 ± 10.15) points, (86.12 ± 9.13) points, which were significantly higher than those in group A [(62.68 ± 5.47) points, (71.39 ± 7.42) points, (69.51 ± 6.39) points, (72.68 ± 7.36) points, (72.81 ± 8.15) points, (73.12 ± 10.13) points, (77.91 ± 9.52) points, (75.32 ± 7.51) points, t = 19.82, 18.34, 19.75, 16.71, 17.94, 20.57, 18.22, 16.44, all P < 0.001]. At 7 days after surgery, neurotrophic factor, neuron specific enolase, hydrogen sulfide and S100B protein levels in group B were (42.53 ± 6.09) μg/L, (6.52 ± 2.79) μg/L, (203.17 ± 15.03) μmol/L, (0.25 ± 0.05) μg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in group A [(67.38 ± 7.42) μg/L, (9.18 ± 2.27) μg/L, (242.79 ± 14.08) μmol/L, (0.36 ± 0.07) μg/L, t = 17.94, 5.12, 13.33, 8.86, all P < 0.001]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications between group B and group A [8.16% (4/49) vs. 18.75% (9/48), χ2 = 2.22, P = 0.136]. Conclusion:Compared with soft channel drainage, neuroendoscopic hematoma removal can better improve clinical indicators, neurological function, and quality of life in patients with CSDH, and is highly safe Neuroendoscopic hematoma removal is of certain clinical application value and innovation.

Clinical study of Xuefu Zhuyu Capsule combined with drilling and drainage in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To identify the effects of Xuefu Zhuyu Capsule (XZC) on the surgical treatment of patients with chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH).Methods:Retrospectively collected 96 pairs of patients who undergoing burr-hole craniotomy (BHC) for CSDH from January 2016 to December 2019 in Dalian Municipal Central Hospital. Clinical characteristics and imaging information of each patient were extracted, the follow-up period was six months. Differences in demographics and postoperative outcomes were compared between BHC+XZC group and BHC only group. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis with Logistic regression model were performed to determine independent associations among the various probable effective factor. The relationship between related factors and effectiveness of CSDH was estimated with odds ratio ( OR) and 95% CI. Results:Effectiveness in 87 cases (90.6%) patients with surgery and received XZC postoperatively was significantly higher than 76 cases (79.2%) patients who underwent surgery alone. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed postoperative administration of XZC and preoperative Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score were independent protective factors for CSDH to improve therapeutic effect.Conclusions:This study suggested postoperative administration of XZC for CSDH patients can improve the therapeutic effect, a higher preoperative GCS score is contributed to the postoperative effect.

Aprendizaje remoto para procedimientos neuro-endovasculares durante la pandemia COVID-19 / Remote learning for neuro-endovascular procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic

RESUMEN Durante la pandemia COVID-19 se ha incrementado el uso de la telemedicina y de plataformas virtuales en el campo de la medicina, por ello, en nuestra institución contamos con un sistema multicámara que permite la visualización en vivo de procedimientos endovasculares. Se realizaron once casos de aneurismas, malformaciones arteriovenosas y hematomas subdurales crónicos que fueron tratados y transmitidos en vivo sin problemas técnicos a través de la plataforma Zoom®. El tiempo promedio de transmisión y del número de participantes fue de 2.5 horas y 6 participantes, respectivamente. En todos los casos se discutió la técnica empleada y las complicaciones ocurridas. El aprendizaje remoto con plataformas en línea es hoy en día una herramienta importante, pero no un sustituto del aprendizaje práctico para procedimientos endovasculares. Recomendamos su implementación durante la pandemia de COVID-19 como un sustituto temporal, especialmente para los médicos en entrenamiento que no tienen acceso a intervenciones endovasculares avanzadas.

ABSTRACT During the COVID-19 pandemics there has been a substantial increase in the use of telemedicine and virtual platforms in the medical field. For this reason, we have in our institution a multi- camera system that allows us live visualizing endovascular procedures. Eleven cases dealing with aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations and chronic subdural hematomas were treated and broadcasted live with no technical problems using the Zoomâ platform. The average time for transmissions was 2.5 hours, and the average number of participants was 6 persons. The used technique and occurring complications were discussed for all cases. Remote learning using online platforms is nowadays a very important tool, but it is not a substitute for practical learning when performing endovascular procedures. We recommend to implement such techniques during COVID-19 pandemics as a temporary substitute for live learning, particularly for young in-training physicians who may not have access to advanced endovascular interventions.

Uso de la embolización de la arteria meníngea media en recidiva de hematoma subdural crónico / Use of embolization of the middle meningeal artery in chronic subdural hematoma recurrence

RESUMEN El hematoma subdural crónico (HSDC) es una patología neuroquirúrgica frecuente, con una recurrencia de hasta el 30% de los casos. La embolización de la arteria meníngea media (AMM) es una estrategia de manejo adyuvante para disminuir la recidiva, especialmente en pacientes con factores de riesgo para recurrencia, y tiene una baja tasa de complicaciones. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 83 años con antecedente de anticoagulación, que es admitido en centro sanitario por presentar hemiparesia derecha, disartria y alteración de la marcha, con un tiempo de enfermedad de una semana. Se realizó trepanación y evacuación del HSDC sin complicaciones. Un mes después retornó por recidiva del HSDC, por lo que se realizó trepanación y evacuación adecuada del HSDC, seguida de embolización de la AMM ipsilateral. El control a los dos meses mostró ausencia de recidiva, con mejoría neurológica del paciente. Concluimos que la embolización de la AMM fue un tratamiento adyuvante eficaz para disminuir la recidiva del HSDC y podría estar indicada en pacientes con factores de riesgo asociados a la recurrencia.

ABSTRACT Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a frequent neurosurgical condition, which may develop recurrence in up to 30% of all cases. Embolization of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) is an adjuvant management strategy for reducing recurrence, especially in patients with risk factors, and it has a low complication rate. We present the case of an 83-year old male with history of anticoagulation, who was admitted in a healthcare facility because of right hemiparesis, dysarthria and gait impairment, and he had been sick for one week. A trepanation and CSDH evacuation were uneventfully performed. One month later, the patient was brought back because of CSDH recurrence, so another trepanation and adequate CSDH evacuation were performed, followed by embolization of the ipsilateral MMA. A control assessment after two months revealed absence of recurrence and neurological improvement. We conclude that MMA embolization was an efficacious adjuvant therapy aiming to reduce CSDH recurrence, and this procedure may be indicated in patients with risk factors for recurrence.

Arachnoid Plasty to Prevent and Reduce Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Clipping Surgery for Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysm : A Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Recent studies have reported that arachnoid plasty (ARP) using gelatin sponges with fibrin glue reduced the occurrence of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) following clipping surgery for unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA). This metaanalysis was conducted to collate further evidence for the efficacy of ARP in preventing postoperative CSDH. METHODS: Data of patients who underwent clipping surgery were extracted from PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials by two independent reviewers. A random effects model was used to investigate the efficacy of ARP by using odd ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A meta-regression analysis for male sex was additionally preformed. RESULTS: Data from six studies with 1715 patients were consecutively included. Meta-analysis revealed that ARP was significantly associated with lower rates of CSDH development after surgical clipping for UIA (ARP group vs. control group : 3.2% vs. 7.2%; OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18-0.93; I2 =44.3%; p=0.110). Meta-regression analysis did not highlight any modifying effect of the male sex on postoperative CSDH development (p=0.951). CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis indicated that ARP reduced the incidence rates of CSDH following clipping surgery for UIA. If feasible, ARP would be implemented as an additional surgical technique to prevent postoperative CSDH development during surgical clipping of UIA.

Influence of Antithrombotic Medication on the Risk of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Recurrence after Burr-Hole Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common intracranial hemorrhages. It can be managed with a simple surgical treatment such as burr-hole trephination and drainage. However, it has a relatively high recurrence rate. The mechanisms and risk factors for the recurrence have not yet been clearly identified and studies have reported varying results. METHODS: We analyzed 230 patients with CSDH who were treated with burr-hole trephination and drainage at our institution from March 2011 to March 2016. The patients were divided into recurrence and non-recurrence groups and the medical records of each group were used to analyze the risk factors associated with CSDH recurrence. RESULTS: After burr-hole trephination and drainage, CSDH recurrence was observed in 49 (21.3%) of the 230 patients. In univariate analysis, none of the factors showed statistical significance with respect to CSDH recurrence. In multivariate analysis, preoperative antithrombotic medication was the only independent risk factor for CSDH recurrence (odds ratio, 2.407; 95% confidence interval, 1.047-5.531). CONCLUSION: The present study found that preoperative antithrombotic medication was independently associated with CSDH recurrence.

Analysis of predisposing factors for chronic subdural hematoma recurrence

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES: To identify recurrence and its potential predisposing factors in a series of 595 patients with an initial diagnosis of Chronic Subdural Hematoma (CSDH) who underwent surgical treatment at a Reference Hospital of São Paulo. METHODS: A retrospective descriptive study, in which the medical records of all patients with a CSDH diagnosis submitted to surgical treatment from 2000 to 2014 were analyzed. RESULTS: The final study population consisted of 500 patients with a diagnosis of CSDH (95 patients with a diagnosis of Cystic Hygroma were excluded), of which 27 patients presented recurrence of the disease (5.4%). There were no statistically significant differences in relapses when cases were stratified by gender, laterality of the first episode or surgical procedure performed in the first episode (trepanning vs. craniotomy). It was possible to demonstrate an age-related protective factor, analyzed as a continuous variable, regarding the recurrence of the CSDH, with a lower rate of recurrence the higher the age. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that, among possible factors associated with recurrence, only age presented a protective factor with statistical significance. The fact that no significant difference between the patients submitted to trepanning or craniotomy was found favors the preferential use of burr-hole surgery as a procedure of choice due to its fast and less complex execution.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Identificar a taxa de recidiva e seus potenciais fatores predisponentes em série de 595 pacientes consecutivos com diagnóstico inicial de hematoma subdural crônico (HSDCr) submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico em hospital terciário de São Paulo nos últimos 14 anos. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo descritivo, no qual foram analisados os prontuários de todos os pacientes com diagnóstico de HSDCr submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico, no período de 2000 a 2014. RESULTADOS: A amostra final consistiu em 500 pacientes com diagnóstico de HSDCr — foram excluídos 95 pacientes com diagnóstico de higroma cístico —, dos quais 27 sujeitos apresentaram recidiva do quadro (5,4%). Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas recidivas quando os casos foram estratificados por gênero, lateralidade do primeiro episódio ou procedimento cirúrgico executado no primeiro episódio (trepanação vs. craniotomia). Foi possível demonstrar um fator protetor relacionado à idade, analisado como variável contínua, no que diz respeito à recidiva do HSDCr, com menor taxa de recidiva com o avançar desta CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados indicam que, dentre os fatores possivelmente associados à recidiva, apenas a idade se apresentou como fator protetor com significância estatística. O fato de não ser demonstrada diferença significativa entre os pacientes submetidos a tratamentos cirúrgicos por trepanação ou por craniotomia favorece o uso preferencial da trepanação como procedimento de escolha, em virtude de apresentar execução rápida e menos complexa.

How to Treat Chronic Subdural Hematoma? Past and Now.

Treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is relatively straightforward, however, there is still some debate regarding the best strategy for treatment. The most practical recommendations of up to date were identified by a review of literature. The author reviewed the literature on CSDH management from the past to now to identify the best methods. Till 1970s, craniotomy was the most commonly used method. Burr hole (BH) became the most preferred method from 1980s. In 1977, twist drill (TD) craniostomy was introduced. Closed system drainage after a BH or a TD became the most frequently used surgical method. Although nonsurgical treatment is often successful, trephination has more advantages, such as rapid resolution of the symptoms and short period of hospitalization. Nonsurgical treatment is possible in asymptomatic patients with a small CSDH. For the symptomatic patients with CSDH, trephination is the treatment of choice, either by BH or TD. In gray zone between surgery and medical treatment, shared decision making can be an ideal approach. For the recurrent CSDHs, repeated trephination is still effective for patients with a low risk of recurrence. If the risk of recurrence is high, additional management would be helpful. For the refractory CSDHs, it is necessary to obliterate the subdural space.

How to Treat Chronic Subdural Hematoma? Past and Now

Treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is relatively straightforward, however, there is still some debate regarding the best strategy for treatment. The most practical recommendations of up to date were identified by a review of literature. The author reviewed the literature on CSDH management from the past to now to identify the best methods. Till 1970s, craniotomy was the most commonly used method. Burr hole (BH) became the most preferred method from 1980s. In 1977, twist drill (TD) craniostomy was introduced. Closed system drainage after a BH or a TD became the most frequently used surgical method. Although nonsurgical treatment is often successful, trephination has more advantages, such as rapid resolution of the symptoms and short period of hospitalization. Nonsurgical treatment is possible in asymptomatic patients with a small CSDH. For the symptomatic patients with CSDH, trephination is the treatment of choice, either by BH or TD. In gray zone between surgery and medical treatment, shared decision making can be an ideal approach. For the recurrent CSDHs, repeated trephination is still effective for patients with a low risk of recurrence. If the risk of recurrence is high, additional management would be helpful. For the refractory CSDHs, it is necessary to obliterate the subdural space.