Treatment of chronic subdural hematoma by burr-hole craniostomy in adults: influence of some factors on postoperative recurrence

The Neurocritical and Neurosurgical Care of Subdural Hematomas

Subdural hematomas (SDHs), though frequently grouped together, can result from a variety of different etiologies, and therefore many different subtypes exist. Moreover, the high incidence of these lesions in the neurocritical care settings behooves practitioners to have a firm grasp on their diagnosis and management. We present here a review of SDHs, with an emphasis on how different subtypes of SDHs differ from one another and with discussion of their medical and surgical management in the neurocritical care setting. In this paper, we discuss considerations for acute, subacute, and chronic SDHs and how presentation and management may change in both the elderly and pediatric populations. We discuss SDHs that arise in the setting of anticoagulation, those that arise in the setting of active cerebrospinal fluid diversion, and those that are recurrent and recalcitrant to initial surgical evacuation. Management steps reviewed include detailed discussion of initial assessment, anticoagulation reversal, seizure prophylaxis, blood pressure management, and indications for intracranial pressure monitoring. Direct surgical management options are reviewed, including open craniotomy, twist-drill, and burr-hole drainage and the usage of subdural drainage systems. SDHs are a common finding in the neurocritical care setting and have a diverse set of presentations. With a better understanding of the fundamental differences between subtypes of SDHs, critical care practitioners can better tailor their management of both the patient's intracranial and multi-systemic pathologies.

Risk Factors for Chronic Subdural Hematoma Recurrence Identified Using Quantitative Computed Tomography Analysis of Hematoma Volume and Density

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), a common condition in elderly patients, presents a therapeutic challenge with recurrence rates of 33%. We aimed to identify specific prognostic factors for recurrence using quantitative analysis of hematoma volume and density.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed radiographic and clinical data of 227 CSDHs in 195 consecutive patients who underwent evacuation of the hematoma through a single burr hole, 2 burr holes, or a mini-craniotomy. To examine the relationship between hematoma recurrence and various clinical, radiologic, and surgical factors, we used quantitative image-based analysis to measure the hematoma and trapped air volumes and the hematoma densities.

RESULTS

Recurrence of CSDH occurred in 35 patients (17.9%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the percentage of hematoma drained and postoperative CSDH density were independent risk factors for recurrence. All 3 evacuation methods were equally effective in draining the hematoma (71.7% vs. 73.7% vs. 71.9%) without observable differences in postoperative air volume captured in the subdural space.

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative image analysis provided evidence that percentage of hematoma drained and postoperative CSDH density are independent prognostic factors for subdural hematoma recurrence.

Atorvastatin May Attenuate Recurrence of Chronic Subdural Hematoma

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common form of intracranial hemorrhage with a substantial recurrence rate. Atorvastatin may reduce CSDH via its anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenesis effects, but its effectiveness for preventing recurrent CSDH has never been explored. We hypothesized that atorvastatin is effective in reducing recurrence of CSDH after surgery and identified determining factors predictive of hematoma recurrence.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted in 168 surgical cases of CSDH.All patients were randomly assigned to the group treated with atorvastatin or control group. Clinically relevant data were compared between two groups, and subsequently between the recurrence and non-recurrence patients. Multiple logistic regression analysis of the relationship between atorvastatin treatment and the recurrence using brain atrophy, septated and bilateral hematoma was performed.

RESULTS

Atorvastatin group conferred an advantage by significantly decreasing the recurrence rate (P = 0.023), and patients managed with atorvastatin also had a longer time-to-recurrence (P = 0.038). Admission brain atrophy and bilateral hematoma differed significantly between the recurrence and non-recurrence patients (P = 0.047 and P = 0.045). The results of logistic regression analysis showed that atorvastatin significantly reduced the probability of recurrence; severe brain atrophy and bilateral hematoma were independent risk factors for recurrent CSDH.

CONCLUSIONS

Atorvastatin administration may decrease the risks of recurrence.Patients with severe brain atrophy and bilateral CSDH are prone to the recurrence.

Timing of the resumption of antithrombotic agents following surgical evacuation of chronic subdural hematomas: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Antithrombosis (AT), defined here as either antiplatelets or anticoagulants, is a significant risk factor for the development of chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs). Resuming AT following the evacuation of cSDH is a highly variable practice, with scant evidence in the literature for guidance. Here, a retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients from a single institution undergoing surgical drainage of cSDH was performed to evaluate postoperative complications and determine the optimal timing of the resumption of common antithrombotic agents.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis was performed on 479 patients undergoing surgical evacuation of cSDH at St. Michael's Hospital over a 5-year period (2007-2012). The collected variables included the type of AT agent, indications for AT, timing and type of postoperative complications, and the restart intervals for the AT agents, when available. Postoperative complications were classified as major hemorrhages, minor hemorrhages, or thromboembolic events.

RESULTS

Among all 479 study patients, 71 experienced major hemorrhage (14.8%), 110 experienced minor hemorrhage (23.0%), and 8 experienced thromboembolism (1.67%) postoperatively. Patients on any type of preoperative AT regimen were at a higher risk of major hemorrhage (19.0% vs 10.9%; OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.15-2.71; p = 0.014). The type of AT agent did not affect the frequency of any postoperative complications. Patients on any preoperative AT regimen experienced earlier postoperative major hemorrhages (mean 16.2 vs 26.5 days; p = 0.052) and thromboembolic events (mean 2.7 vs 51.5 days; p = 0.036) than those patients without a history of AT; the type of AT agent did not affect timing of complications. Patients who were restarted on any AT therapy postoperatively were at decreased risk of major rebleeding following resumption than those patients who were not restarted (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.2; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of preoperative AT experienced thromboembolic complications significantly earlier than those patients without AT, which peaked at 3 days postoperatively with no increase in hemorrhage risk when AT was restarted. Cursory evidence is presented that shows resuming AT early following the surgical evacuation of cSDH at 3 days postoperatively may be safe. However, much larger prospective studies are required prior to providing any definitive recommendations regarding the optimal timing and method of resumption of individual agents.

Surgical treatment of 137 cases with chronic subdural hematoma at the university clinical center of Kosovo during the period 2008-2012

Background:

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is frequent pathology in neurosurgical practice. The aim of this study is to present the first series of patients with CSDH, who got surgically treated in Clinic of Neurosurgery, University Clinical Center of Kosovo.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective study that included 137 patients with CSDH who had been treated during the period 2008–2012. The data were collected and analyzed from the archives and protocols of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo. Patients were analyzed in many aspects such as age, gender, etiological factors, clinical features, localization, diagnoses, methods of surgical interventions, recurrences and mortality of patients.

Results:

From 137 patients with CSDH, 106 (77.3%) were males and 31 (22.7%) females. Average age of patients was 62.85 years. Analyzed according to the decades, the highest number of causes with CSDH was between 70 and 79 years (46%). The head trauma has been responsible for CSDH in 88 patients (64.3%), while the main symptom was headache (92 patients or 67.1%). One burr-hole trepanation with closed drainage system has been used in majority of cases (in 101 patients or 73.7%). The recurrence of CSDH was 6.5%, whereas mortality 2.9%.

Conclusion:

CSDH is more common in elderly patients. The male-female ratio is 3.4:1. Like other authors we also think that treatment with one burr-hole and drainage is a method of choice, because of its simplicity and safety.

Magnetic resonance imaging findings predict the recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma

The exact predictive factors for postoperative recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) are still unknown. Based on the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), low recurrence rate of T1-hyperintensity hematoma was previously reported. We investigated the other types of radiological findings which are related to the recurrence rate of CSDH in large number of patients analyzed by multivariate logistic regression model. Preoperative MRI and postoperative computed tomography (CT) were performed and the influence of the preoperative use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs was also studied. The overall recurrence rate was 9.3% (47 of 505 hematomas). The MRI T1-iso/hypointensity group showed a significantly higher recurrence rate (18.2%, 29 of 159) compared to the other groups (5.2%, 18 of 346; p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed T1 classification was the solo significant prognostic predictor among various factors such as bilateral hematoma, antiplatelet or anticoagulant drug usage, residual hematoma on postoperative CT, and MRI classification (p < 0.001): adjusted odds ratio for the recurrence in T1-iso/hypointensity group relative to the T1-hyperintensity group was 5.58 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.09-14.86] (p = 0.001). Postoperative residual hematoma and antiplatelet or anticoagulant drug usage did not increase the recurrence risk. The preoperative MRI findings, especially T1WI findings, have predictive value for postoperative recurrence of CSDH and the T1-iso/hypointensity group can be assumed to be a high recurrence risk group.

Predicting Recurrence after Chronic Subdural Haematoma Drainage

Background: Recurrence of chronic subdural haematomas (CSDHs) after surgical drainage is a significant problem with rates up to 20%. This study focuses on determining factors predictive of haematoma recurrence and presents a scoring system stratifying recurrence risk for individual patients. Methods: Between the years 2005 and 2009, 331 consecutive patients with CSDHs treated with surgery were included in this study. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed searching for risk factors of increased post-operative haematoma volume and haematoma recurrence requiring repeat drainage. Results: We found a 12% reoperation rate. CSDH septation (seen on computed tomogram scan) was found to be an independent risk factor for recurrence requiring reoperation (p=0.04). Larger post-operative subdural haematoma volume was also significantly associated with requiring a second drainage procedure (p<0.001). Independent risk factors of larger post-operative haematoma volume included septations within a CSDH (p<0.01), increased pre-operative haematoma volume (p<0.01), and a greater amount of parenchymal atrophy (p=0.04). A simple scoring system for quantifying recurrence risk was created and validated based on patient age (< or ≥80 years), haematoma volume (< or ≥160cc), and presence of septations within the subdural collection (yes or no). Conclusion: Septations within CSDHs are associated with larger post-operative residual haematoma collections requiring repeat drainage. When septations are clearly visible within a CSDH, craniotomy might be more suitable as a primary procedure as it allows greater access to a septated subdural collection. Our proposed scoring system combining haematoma volume, age, and presence of septations might be useful in identifying patients at higher risk for recurrence.

Desmopressin acetate in intracranial haemorrhage

Introduction. The secondary increase in the size of intracranial haematomas as a result of spontaneous haemorrhage or trauma is of particular relevance in the event of prior intake of platelet aggregation inhibitors. We describe the effect of desmopressin acetate as a means of temporarily stabilising the platelet function. Patients and Methods. The platelet function was analysed in 10 patients who had received single (N = 4) or multiple (N = 6) doses of acetylsalicylic acid and 3 patients (control group) who had not taken acetylsalicylic acid. All subjects had suffered intracranial haemorrhage. Analysis was performed before, half an hour and three hours after administration of desmopressin acetate. Statistical analysis was performed by applying a level of significance of P ≤ 0.05. Results. (1) Platelet function returned to normal 30 minutes after administration of desmopressin acetate. (2) The platelet function worsened again after three hours. (3) There were no complications related to electrolytes or fluid balance. Conclusion. Desmopressin acetate can stabilise the platelet function in neurosurgical patients who have received acetylsalicylic acid prior to surgery without causing transfusion-related side effects or a loss of time. The effect is, however, limited and influenced by the frequency of drug intake. Further controls are needed in neurosurgical patients.

The Predicting Factors for Recurrence of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Treated with Burr Hole and Drainage

Objective

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is common in elderly patients. So, with an increasing number of elderly people in the general population, there is a need to investigate risk factors which increase recurrence rate. In this study, factors affecting the postoperative recurrence are investigated based on the reoperative CSDH cases.

Methods

Total of ninety-seven patients was enrolled in this study who had have operation for CSDH. In all patients, one burr hole trephination and drainage was the method of choice for the initial treatment of CSDH. We retrospectively evaluated several factors which affect to recurrence of CSDH.

Results

Retrospective analysis was performed in 97 patients. Sixteen patients experienced reoperation within 3 months (16/97, 16.5%) for recurrence of CSDH. And, when hematoma was divided by internal architecture, heterogeneous density group seems to be have close relationship with recurrence more significantly than homogeneous density group (p=0.002). Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, early removal of drainage tube, bilaterality of hematoma also have significant relationship with recurrence.

Conclusion

Recurrence rate of CSDH treated with one burr hole drainage is related with some various factors. There was statistically significant difference between recurred group and non-recurred group. Not only demographic factors but also internal architecture on preoperative brain computed tomography is a significant predicting factor of recurrence in CSDH patients who underwent a surgery. In this study, heterogeneous type hematoma have significantly related with recurrence of CSDH. We should give attention to these predicting factors for more effective care.

Quantitative assessment of post-operative recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma using mean haematoma density

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to establish a quantitative method with which to assess the post-operative recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH).

METHODS

CT scans were reviewed from 44 consecutive patients with CSDHs who underwent burr hole drainage between July 2008 and January 2012. The area of the haematoma was quantified according to the mean haematoma density (MHD) using computer-based image analysis of pre-operative brain CT scans. MHD as well as other variables of patients with and without post-operative recurrences was statistically compared.

RESULTS

Post-operative recurrence was noted in six of the 44 patients that underwent surgical procedures. Among these variables, high MHD, separated type and bilateral and skull base involvement of CSDHs were shown to be significantly related to post-operative recurrence (p < 0.05). Controlling for separated type in logistic regression analysis revealed the OR of MHD as statistically significant indicators with a p value of less than 0.05 (OR = 1.243; 95% CI = 1.003-1.54).

CONCLUSION

This study provides statistical proof that MHD is a significant, independent, prognostic factor for the post-operative recurrence of CSDH. As such, consideration of MHD could aid in the prediction of post-operative prognosis of CSDHs.

Effect of inner membrane tearing in the treatment of adult chronic subdural hematoma: a comparative study

The postoperative results of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) procedures using catheterization and tearing of inner membrane (CTIM) technique have not previously been discussed in the literature. This article compares the effects of CTIM technique on brain re-expansion and re-accumulation with cases operated on with a burr-hole craniotomy and outer membrane incision (BCOMI) technique. The study involved operations on 144 patients (Group 1) using the CTIM technique and 108 patients (Group 2) using the BCOMI technique. In the operations using the CTIM technique in Group 1, the mean effusion measured in the subdural space (SDS) was 10.0 ± 0.2 mm, and for Group 2, 14.3 ± 0.6 mm in the postoperative period on the first and third days and this difference was found to be significant (p < 0.05). The means were 6.6 ± 0.2 mm for Group 1 and 10.3 ± 0.5 mm for Group 2 on the seventh day (p < 0.05). Recurrence rate was 8.3% in Group 2 and 0 in Group 1. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0001). The length of hospital stay was 7.0 ± 0.1 days for the Group 1 and 8.8 ± 0.2 days for Group 2 and this difference was significant (p < 0.05). These results indicate that the CTIM technique is preferable because it results in earlier re-expansion, lower recurrence, less subdural effusion and pneumocephalus, and shorter hospital stays.

Recommencement of anticoagulation in chronic subdural haematoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is becoming an increasingly important neurosurgical condition, especially given the aging world population and the increasing use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication. Clinicians regularly confront the dilemma of whether or not to restart anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication after CSDH, yet there is little evidence to support the decision-making process. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to address this specific question.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines and has been registered with the PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (registration number CRD42012002509). Databases including MEDLINE, Cochrane, ISI Web of Knowledge, Embase and Google Scholar were searched for retrospective and prospective studies looking specifically at patients presenting with CSDH whilst on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication which had data on subsequent recurrence and thromboembolic events.

RESULTS

Three relevant studies were found, totalling to 64 patients. In those restarted on anticoagulation, 11.1% experienced recurrences and 2.2% experienced thromboembolic events. In the control group that was not restarted on anticoagulation, 22.2% experienced recurrences and no patient experienced thromboembolic events. All recurrences and thromboembolic events occurred within the first 4 weeks of the initial surgical evacuation.

CONCLUSIONS

The review seems to paradoxically suggest a lower bleeding risk and a higher thromboembolism risk when anticoagulation is restarted, although few concrete conclusions can be drawn from a pool of 64 patients. The decision on whether or not to restart anticoagulation in patients who present with CSDH whilst on anticoagulation has little empirical evidence to support a decision either way; more data are required to allow clinicians to make informed decisions about whether or not to restart anticoagulation, and if so, which drug, at what time-point and at what dose/therapeutic target.

Refractory diabetes insipidus following drainage of chronic subdural haematoma

BACKGROUND

Post-traumatic diabetes insipidus (DI) is a relatively common complication after head injury. The authors report a fatal case of refractory DI, which developed in a patient with chronic subdural haematoma.

CASE HISTORY

A 38-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with a headache for over a week. She was alert and neurological examination demonstrated no significant deficits or external wounds in her head. Brain computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a small amount of chronic subdural haematoma bilaterally. She was treated conservatively and her hospital course was uneventful until she developed a convulsive seizure and mental change on the 3rd day after admission. Immediate follow-up CT scans showed no significant change in the amount of haemorrhage except effacement of gyral marking. Bilateral trephination and drainage of the haematoma were performed immediately. Post-operatively, she developed a refractory DI and was managed in the intensive care unit. However, she died on the 6th day after the operation ultimately.

CONCLUSION

The authors emphasize the importance of timely drainage of chronic subdural haematoma to prevent a fatal endocrinologic complication after head injury. This study also discusses the possible mechanism of DI after head injury, management and review of the pertinent literatures.

Predictors of mortality in nontraumatic subdural hematoma

OBJECT

Subdural hematoma (SDH) is a common diagnosis in neurosurgical and neurocritical practice. Comprehensive outcome data are lacking for nontraumatic SDH. The authors determined which factors are associated with in-hospital mortality in a large sample of patients with nontraumatic SDH.

METHODS

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, the authors selected adults who had been hospitalized in the US between 2007 and 2009 and in whom a primary diagnosis of nontraumatic SDH (ICD-9-CM code 432.1) had been made. Demographics, comorbidities, surgical treatment, and discharge outcomes were identified. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Among 14,093 patients with acute nontraumatic SDH, the mean age was 71.4 ± 14.8 (mean ± standard deviation). In addition, 22.2% of the patients were admitted during the weekend. Surgical evacuation was performed in 51.4% of the patients, and 11.8% of all patients died during hospitalization. In multivariate analyses, patient age (adjusted OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.012-1.022), congestive heart failure (adjusted OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.19-1.71), warfarin use (adjusted OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.17-1.70), coagulopathy (adjusted OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.75-2.61), mechanical ventilation (adjusted OR 16.85, 95% CI 14.29-19.86), and weekend admission (adjusted OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.02-1.38) were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Race (Hispanic: adjusted OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.51-0.83; black: adjusted OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.63-0.96), urban hospital location (adjusted OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.54-0.89), and surgical SDH evacuation (adjusted OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.45-0.60) were strong independent predictors for decreased mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

One in 9 patients with nontraumatic SDH dies during hospitalization. Among the several predictors of in-hospital mortality, the weekend effect and treatment with surgical evacuation are potentially modifiable factors. Further investigation may lead to improvements in management and outcomes.

Volume and densities of chronic subdural haematoma obtained from CT imaging as predictors of postoperative recurrence: a prospective study of 107 operated patients

Background

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is a common entity in neurosurgery with a considerable postoperative recurrence rate. Computerised tomography (CT) scanning remains the most important diagnostic test for this disorder. The aim of this study was to characterise the relationship between the recurrence of CSDH after treatment with burr-hole irrigation and closed-system drainage technique and CT scan features of these lesions to assess whether CT findings can be used to predict recurrence.

Methods

We investigated preoperative and postoperative CT scan features and recurrence rate of 107 consecutive adult surgical cases of CSDH and assessed any relationship with univariate and multivariate regression analyses.

Results

Seventeen patients (15.9 %) experienced recurrence of CSDH. The preoperative haematoma volume, the isodense, hyperdense, laminar and separated CT densities and the residual total haematoma cavity volume on the 1st postoperative day after removal of the drainage were identified as radiological predictors of recurrence. If the preoperative haematoma volume was under 115 ml and the residual total haematoma cavity volume postoperatively was under 80 ml, the probability of no recurrence was very high (94.4 % and 97.4 % respectively).

Conclusions

These findings from CT imaging may help to identify patients at risk for postoperative recurrence.

Clinical factors associated with outcome in chronic subdural hematoma: a retrospective cohort study of patients on preoperative corticosteroid therapy

BACKGROUND

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is commonly seen in neurosurgical practice, and the incidence is increasing. Treatment results are highly variable with respect to recurrences and complications.

OBJECTIVE

To report our single-center experience with the surgical treatment of CSDH in patients on preoperative corticosteroids and to assess possible predictors of outcome.

METHODS

The medical reports of 496 consecutive patients with CSDHs treated with burr hole craniostomy were analyzed retrospectively. Patient demographics, medication, hematoma, treatment characteristics, and laboratory values were scored in relation to outcome. Data were analyzed with the χ(2) test, independent t test, and multivariate backward regression.

RESULTS

Mean age was 71.5 ± 13.3 years (range, 18.6-95.4 years); the male-to-female ratio was 3:1. A decreased Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was observed in 63.1%, and GCS motor score on admission was < 6 in 25.2%. Recurrence and mortality rates were 11.9% and 5.3%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed a longer period of preoperative dexamethasone administration (odds ratio [OR], 0.93 per day; P = .02), GCS motor score within 1 week after surgery of 6 (OR, 0.54; P = .02), postoperative complications (OR, 5.3; P < .001), and a left-sided hematoma (OR, 0.42; P = 0.010) to be significantly related to recurrence risk.

CONCLUSION

The present data suggest that in surgical treatment of CSDH with burr hole craniostomy, extended preoperative corticosteroid administration is associated with a lower recurrence rate. The use of corticosteroids does not seem to be related to a higher incidence of complications and treatment-related death compared with the current literature.

Pneumocephalus after surgical evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma: Is it a serious complication?

Background:

Pneumocephalus is commonly encountered after surgical evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). This study was done to study the incidence, clinical presentation, and management of patients who developed pneumocephalus after surgical evacuation of CSDH.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study was carried out on consecutive 50 patients who had received surgical treatment for CSDH. All the patients included were followed-up postoperatively with regular clinical and computed tomography (CT) examinations immediately postoperatively, before discharge, and 2 months after surgery. Pneumocephalus was classified into simple and tension, based upon the clinical and radiological criteria. The neurologic grading system of Markwalder et al was used to evaluate the surgical results.

Results:

The immediate postoperative CT scan showed pneumocephalus in 22 patients (44%). Tension pneumocephalus was found in two patients who did not require any further surgery. There was statistically significant increase in the incidence of pneumocephalus (immediate and postoperative) in the patients aged over 60 years as well as those presenting with a midline shift more than 5 mm in their CT scan. With regard to the 22 cases of pneumocephalus, good postoperative results were found in 16 patients (73%), while bad results were found in 6 patients (27%). No statistically significant difference in the outcome between patients who had pneumocephalus after surgery and those who had not.

Conclusion:

Pneumocephalus after surgical evacuation of CSDH is a common finding in the immediate CT scan as well as at time of discharge. Tension pneumocephalus may not require surgical intervention and simple aspiration of air using a syringe may be sufficient.

Independent predictors for recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma

BACKGROUND

Chronic subdural hematoma is characterized by blood in the subdural space that evokes an inflammatory reaction. Numerous factors potentially associated with recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma have been reported, but these factors have not been sufficiently investigated. In this study, we evaluated the independent risk factors of recurrence.

METHODS

We analyzed data for 420 patients with chronic subdural hematoma treated by the standard surgical procedure for hematoma evacuation at our institution.

RESULTS

Ninety-two (21.9 %) patients experienced at least one recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma during the study period. We did not identify any significant differences between chronic subdural hematoma recurrence and current antiplatelet therapy. The recurrence rate was 7 % for the homogeneous type, 21 % for the laminar type, 38 % for the separated type, and 0 % for the trabecular type. The rate of recurrence was significantly lower in the homogeneous and trabecular type than in the laminar and separated type. We performed a multivariate logistic regression analysis and found that postoperative midline shifting (OR, 3.6; 95 % CI, 1.618-7.885; p = 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.2; 95 % CI, 1.196-3.856; p = 0.010), history of seizure (OR, 2.6; 95 % CI, 1.210-5.430; p = 0.014), width of hematoma (OR, 2.1; 95 % CI, 1.287-3.538; p = 0.003), and anticoagulant therapy (OR, 2.7; 95 % CI, 1.424-6.960; p = 0.005) were independent risk factors for the recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma.

CONCLUSIONS

We have shown that postoperative midline shifting (≥5 mm), diabetes mellitus, preoperative seizure, preoperative width of hematoma (≥20 mm), and anticoagulant therapy were independent predictors of the recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma. According to internal architecture of hematoma, the rate of recurrence was significantly lower in the homogeneous and the trabecular type than the laminar and separated type.

Indications and surgical results of twist-drill craniostomy at the pre-coronal point for symptomatic chronic subdural hematoma patients

Objective

Twist-drill craniostomy (TDC) with closed-system drainage and burr-hole drainage (BHD) with a closed system are effective treatment options for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). The aim of this study was to analyze clinical data and surgical results from symptomatic CSDH patients who underwent TDC with closed-system drainage at the pre-coronal point (PCP).

Methods

We analyzed data for 134 symptomatic CSDH patients who underwent TDC at the PCP with closed-system drainage. We defined the PCP for TDC to be 1 cm anterior to the coronal suture at the level of superior temporal line. TDC at the PCP with closed-system drainage was selected in patients with CSDH that extended beyond the coronal suture, confirmed by preoperative CT scans. Medical records, radiological findings, and clinical performance were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

Of the 134 CSDH patients, 114 (85.1%) showed improved clinical performance and imaging findings after surgery. Catheter failures were seen in two cases (1.4%); the catheters were inserted in the epidural space. Recurrent cases were seen in eight patients (5.6%), and they were improved with a second BHD with a closed-system operation.

Conclusion

TDC at the PCP with closed-system drainage is safe and effective for patients with symptomatic CSDH whose hematomas extend beyond the coronal suture.

The risk factors for recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease in the elderly, and the recurrence rate of CSDH is reported to range from 2.3 to 33%. We performed a retrospective review of a number of CSDH cases and the potential factors associated with CSDH recurrence. The patient population comprised 112 men and 65 women with a mean age of 74.7 years. We analyzed the following factors: age, sex, antiplatelet and anticoagulant use, hematoma laterality, hematoma thickness, degree of midline shift and internal architecture of the hematoma in the preoperative CT films, use of irrigation, direction of the drainage tube, width of the subdural space, and degree of midline shift and the presence of a massive subdural air collection in the postoperative CT films. Univariate analysis revealed that there was a trend for different rates of recurrence among the different types of hematomas. The presence of a postoperative massive subdural air collection tended to be associated with the recurrence of hematoma. Multivariate analysis revealed that separated hematomas were significantly associated with CSDH recurrence, whereas the presence of postoperative massive subdural air collection tended to be associated with hematoma recurrence. Neither univariate nor multivariate analysis could demonstrate an association between the direction of the drainage tube and the recurrence of CSDH.

Factors predicting recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma: the influence of intraoperative irrigation and low-molecular-weight heparin thromboprophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Burr-hole drainage has become the accepted treatment of choice for chronic subdural haematoma (cSDH), although still burdened with a major recurrence rate. The current analysis was initiated to determine management-related risk factors for recurrence, i.e. postoperative low-molecular-weight heparin thromboprophylaxis, and the importance of rinsing the subdural space.

METHODS

Two-hundred and forty-seven patients with computerised tomography (CT) defined symptomatic cSDH were managed by two burr-hole trepanations and drainage between January 2005 and November 2008. Postoperative thromboprophylaxis with 40 mg enoxaparine daily was given only during the first half of the study period. For the current analysis the amount of rinsing fluid, postoperative low-dose thromboprophylaxis, as well as age and gender, bilaterality, preoperative and postoperative blood coagulation studies, platelet counts and decrease of subdural fluid on early postoperative CT, were recorded and correlated with recurrence. Statistical calculation was done by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 62 of 247 patients needed revision surgery for recurrence (25.1 %). Recurrence rates were significantly lower in the patients treated without postoperative enoxaparine (18.84 %) than in the group with postoperative low-dose enoxaparine thromboprophylaxis (32.11 %) and enoxaparine was administered in a higher proportion of the patients suffering recurrence (P = 0.013). A median intraoperative irrigation volume of 863 ml saline was used in the patients suffering recurrence and 1,500 ml in patients without recurrence (P < 0.001). The median age was slightly higher in the patients suffering from recurrence. Male gender predominated in both groups but was slightly more pronounced in the recurrence group. Preoperative and postoperative platelet counts and plasmatic coagulation indices did not differ significantly between the groups. Relative residual subdural fluid collection on early postoperative CT remained larger in patients finally suffering recurrence (P = 0.03). Multivariate analysis confirmed a small amount of rinsing fluid, male gender and the use of enoxaparine as the most important risk factors for recurrence, although that latter factor did not reach statistical significance in the multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The investigation provides evidence that copious intraoperative irrigation and avoidance of postoperative low-molecular-weight heparin thromboprophylaxis may reduce the recurrence rate of cSDH.

Subdural hematomas: an analysis of 1181 Kashmiri patients

BACKGROUND

We endeavored to analyze patients of subacute and chronic subdural hematomas studied in a 4-year period at the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Kashmir, India.

METHODS

The study was a retrospective analysis of 1181 patients of subdural hematomas. Demographic characteristics, clinico-radiologic features, operative modalities, and outcome were studied. Acute subdural hematomas were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

The mean age was 60.4 ± 12.4 and males outnumbered females. Chronic subdural collections were more common than subacute subdural hematomas and left side predominated. Two burr holes with closed-system drainage was used in most patients. Incidence of postoperative seizures is very low. Overall recurrence rates were low; however, multilocular hematomas had the highest incidence of recurrence. Morbidity and mortality were 7.53% and 2.96%, respectively. Preoperative neurologic grade correlated with outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Subdural hematomas are common in elderly males. Preoperative neurologic grade dictates the outcome. Multilocular hematomas have a higher chance of recurrence. Craniotomy should be reserved for recurrent hematomas, and there may be a scope of craniotomy for multilocular chronic subdural hematomas at the outset. Antiepileptic prophylaxis is not routinely recommended.

Intravenous fluid administration may improve post-operative course of patients with chronic subdural hematoma: a retrospective study

Background

The treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is still charged of significant risk of hematoma recurrence. Patient-related predictors and the surgical procedures themselves have been addressed in many studies. In contrast, postoperative management has infrequently been subjected to detailed analysis. Moreover variable intravenous fluid administration (IFA) was not reported in literature till now in the context of cSDH treatment.

Methodology/Principal Findings

A total of 45 patients with cSDH were operated in our department via two burr hole craniostomy within one calendar year. Downward drainage was routinely left in hematoma cavity for a one day. Independent variables selected for the analysis were related to various aspects of patient management, including IFA. Two dependent variables were chosen as measure of clinical course: the rate of hematoma recurrence (RHR) and neurological status at discharge from hospital expressed in points of Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed. Hematoma recurrence with subsequent evacuation occurred in 7 (15%) patients.

Univariate regression analysis revealed that length of IFA after surgery influenced both dependent variables: RHR (p = 0.045) and GOS (p = 0.023). Multivariate regression performed by backward elimination method confirmed that IFA is a sole independent factor influencing RHR. Post hoc dichotomous division of patients revealed that those receiving at least 2000 ml/day over 3 day period revealed lower RHR than the group with less intensive IFA. (p = 0.031).

Conclusions/Significance

IFA has been found to be a sole factor influencing both: RHR and GOS. Based on those results we may recommend administration of at least 2000 ml per 3 days post-operatively to decrease the risk of hematoma recurrence.

The surgical management of chronic subdural hematoma

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is an increasingly common neurological disease process. Despite the wide prevalence of cSDH, there remains a lack of consensus regarding numerous aspects of its clinical management. We provide an overview of the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cSDH and discuss several controversial management issues, including the timing of post-operative resumption of anticoagulant medications, the effectiveness of anti-epileptic prophylaxis, protocols for mobilization following evacuation of cSDH, as well as the comparative effectiveness of the various techniques of surgical evacuation. A PubMed search was carried out through October 19, 2010 using the following keywords: "subdural hematoma", "craniotomy", "burr-hole", "management", "anticoagulation", "seizure prophylaxis", "antiplatelet", "mobilization", and "surgical evacuation", alone and in combination. Relevant articles were identified and back-referenced to yield additional papers. A meta-analysis was then performed comparing the efficacy and complications associated with the various methods of cSDH evacuation. There is general agreement that significant coagulopathy should be reversed expeditiously in patients presenting with cSDH. Although protocols for gradual resumption of anti-coagulation for prophylaxis of venous thrombosis may be derived from guidelines for other neurosurgical procedures, further prospective study is necessary to determine the optimal time to restart full-dose anti-coagulation in the setting of recently drained cSDH. There is also conflicting evidence to support seizure prophylaxis in patients with cSDH, although the existing literature supports prophylaxis in patients who are at a higher risk for seizures. The published data regarding surgical technique for cSDH supports primary twist drill craniostomy (TDC) drainage at the bedside for patients who are high-risk surgical candidates with non-septated cSDH and craniotomy as a first-line evacuation technique for cSDH with significant membranes. Larger prospective studies addressing these aspects of cSDH management are necessary to establish definitive recommendations.

Choosing the best operation for chronic subdural hematoma: a decision analysis

OBJECT

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), a condition much more common in the elderly, presents an increasing challenge as the population ages. Treatment strategies for CSDH include bur-hole craniostomy (BHC), twist-drill craniostomy (TDC), and craniotomy. Decision analysis was used to organize existing data and develop recommendations for effective treatment.

METHODS

A Medline search was used to identify articles about treatment of CSDH. Direct assessment by health care professionals of the relative health impact of common complications and recurrences was used to generate utility values for treatment outcomes. Monte Carlo simulation and sensitivity analyses allowed comparisons across treatment strategies. A second simulation examined whether intraoperative irrigation or postoperative drainage affect the outcomes following BHC.

RESULTS

On a scale from 0 to 1, the utility of BHC was found to be 0.9608, compared with 0.9202 for TDC (p = 0.001) and 0.9169 for craniotomy (p = 0.006). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these values. Craniotomy yielded fewer recurrences, but more frequent and more serious complications than did BHC. There were no significant differences for BHC with or without irrigation or postoperative drainage.

CONCLUSIONS

Bur-hole craniostomy is the most efficient choice for surgical drainage of uncomplicated CSDH. Bur-hole craniostomy balances a low recurrence rate with a low incidence of highly morbid complications. Decision analysis provides statistical and empirical guidance in the absence of well-controlled large trials and despite a confusing range of previously reported morbidity and recurrence.

Analysis of the subdural evacuating port system for the treatment of subacute and chronic subdural hematomas

OBJECT

The subdural evacuating port system (SEPS; Medtronic, Inc.) is a minimally invasive means of draining subacute or chronic subdural fluid collections. The purpose of this study was to examine a single institution's results with the SEPS.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was undertaken for all patients who underwent SEPS drainage of subdural collections. Demographic and radiographic characteristics were evaluated. Both pre- and post-SEPS CT studies were analyzed to determine the volume of subdural collection and midline shift. Hospital charts were reviewed for SEPS output, and periprocedural complications were noted.

RESULTS

were classified as a success (S) or failure (F) based on the need for further subdural drainage procedures. Groups were then compared to identify factors predictive of success. Results Eighty-five subdural collections were treated in 74 patients (unilateral collections in 63 patients and bilateral in 11). Sixty-three collections (74%) were successfully drained. In a comparison of the success and failure groups, there were no statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the mean age pre-SEPS, Glasgow Coma Scale score, presenting symptoms, underlying coagulopathy or use of anticoagulation/antiplatelet agents, laterality of SDH, pre-SEPS subdural volume or midline shift, or any of the measurements used to characterize SEPS placement. There were a greater number of male patients in the success group (45 [82%] of 55 patients vs 11 [58%] of 19 patients; p = 0.04). The only statistically significant (p < 0.05) factor predictive of success was the radiographic appearance of the subdural collection. More hypodense collections were successfully treated (32 [51%] of 63 collections vs 4 [18%] of 22 collections; p = 0.005), whereas mixed density collections were more likely to fail SEPS treatment (S: 11 [17%] of 63 collections vs F: 14 [64%] of 22 collections; p < 0.00001). In the success group, the percentage of the collection drained after SEPS was greater (S: 47.1 ± 32.8% vs F: 19.8 ± 28.2%; p = 0.001) and a larger output was drained (S: 190.7 ± 221.5 ml vs F: 60.2 ± 63.3 ml; p = 0.001). In the patients with available but delayed scans (≥ 30 days since SEPS placement), the residual subdural collection following successful SEPS evacuation was nearly identical to that remaining after open surgical evacuation in the failure group. In 2 cases (2.4% of total devices used), SEPS placement caused a new acute subdural component, necessitating emergency evacuation in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The SEPS is a safe and effective treatment option for draining subacute and chronic SDHs. The system can be used quickly with local anesthesia only, making it ideal in elderly or sick patients who might not tolerate the physiological stress of a craniotomy under general anesthesia. Computed tomography is useful in predicting which subdural collections are most amenable to SEPS drainage. Specifically, hypodense subdural collections drain more effectively through an SEPS than do mixed density collections. Although significant bleeding after SEPS insertion was uncommon, 1 patient in the series required urgent surgical hematoma evacuation due to iatrogenic injury.