Risk factors for the occurrence of chronic subdural haematomas after neurosurgical procedures

Chronic subdural hematoma caused by excessive drainage in a patient with ventriculoperitoneal shunt valve breakdown in brain injury: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) often occurs 3 weeks to 3 months after brain injury, which is mainly caused by bleeding of the bridging vein. For patients with ventriculoperitoneal (V-P) shunt, excessive drainage can also cause CSDH. We present a rare case of CSDH caused by shunt valve breakdown in brain injury.

CASE REPORT

We report a 68-year-old man with V-P shunt for 8 years. He presented with bilateral CSDH with disappearance of lateral ventricles nearly 1 month after a brain injury caused by being hit with a stick. After burr hole drainage (BHD), the patient's symptoms improved and lateral ventricles reappeared, but disappeared rapidly with CSDH recurrence within a short time. We considered the cause to be medium pressure shunt valve breakdown caused by hitting with a stick, which was confirmed by the engineer's test after the operation and excessive drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. BHD replaced the adjustable pressure shunt valve, and the patient recovered.

CONCLUSION

V-P shunt is a common operation in neurosurgery, and postoperative shunt valve breakdown may lead to poor outcome. We report a rare case of CSDH caused by shunt valve breakdown due to excessive external forces, suggesting that patients after V-P shunt should pay attention to the protection of the shunt valve.

Preservation of the middle meningeal artery during unruptured aneurysm surgery: an independent risk factor for postoperative chronic subdural hematoma

Background

Although microsurgical clipping for unruptured aneurysms has become safer and more efficient with modern neurosurgical advances, postoperative chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) persists as an underrecognized complication. This study investigated the association between preservation of the anterior branch of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) during surgery and CSDH development.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 120 patients who underwent clipping for unruptured aneurysms at Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital between May 2020 and July 2023. We evaluated the patients on the basis of surgical approach-lateral supraorbital (LSO) or standard pterional craniotomy-and the status of the MMA postoperatively. We employed pre-and post-operative MR angiography to assess MMA preservation and used follow-up computed tomography scans to monitor CSDH development.

Results

Of the 120 patients, 22 (18.3%) developed CSDH. Univariate analysis revealed that male sex, advanced age, and MMA preservation are risk factors for postoperative CSDH. Multivariate analysis supported these findings, indicating a significant association with the development of CSDH. MMA preservation was reported in 65 patients, of whom 60 and 5 underwent LSO and pterional craniotomy, respectively.

Conclusion

Preservation of the anterior branch of the MMA during unruptured aneurysm surgery is a risk factor for postoperative CSDH development. Advanced age and male sex also contribute to the increased risk. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into surgical techniques that could mitigate postoperative CSDH development.

Subdural hygroma and hemorrhagic conversion after microsurgical clipping for unruptured intracranial aneurysm

BACKGROUND

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a unique hemorrhagic complication associated with microsurgical clipping. We aimed to investigate the risk factors of subdural hygroma (SDG) formation and its hemorrhagic conversion to cSDH.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 229 patients who underwent microsurgical clipping for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) from 2016 to 2019. Risk factors for SDG and cSDH formation were analyzed.

RESULTS

Male sex, age ≥ 60 years, higher degree of arachnoid dissection, severe brain atrophy, and a large volume of subdural fluid collection (SFC) before discharge were independent risk factors for SDG formation. The risk factors for hemorrhagic conversion from SDG were continuous use or early resumption of antiplatelet drugs (odds ratio (OR): 15.367, 95% CI: 1.172-201.402) and a larger volume of SFC before discharge (OR: 0.932, 95% CI: 0.886-0.980). In the early resumption group, antiplatelet drug was resumed at a mean duration of 7.48 days postoperatively, and hemorrhagic conversion was detected earlier than that in the late resumption or no-use groups (4.09 vs. 7.18 weeks, P = 0.046). Following the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the SFC cutoff volume for hemorrhagic conversion was determined to be 23.55 mL.

CONCLUSION

These findings can assist clinicians in identifying patients at a high risk of SDG and cSDH formation. Antiplatelet resumption and its timing should be determined with consideration of the risk of cSDH formation as well as individual medical conditions.

Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Craniotomy with Preoperative Embolization of Middle Meningeal Artery: A Case Report

Endovascular embolization of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) has been reported as an effective method for treating chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH); however, its preventive effect on CSDH following craniotomy is unknown. We present a case in which MMA embolization was ineffective in preventing CSDH following craniotomy. A 56-year-old man who complained of diplopia was diagnosed with sphenoid ridge meningioma with a 3-cm diameter. MMA embolization prior to the operation and total surgical removal of the tumor were performed. Two months postoperatively, the patient complained of headache and hemiparesis of the left side. CSDH with a 15-mm thickness and a midline shift was observed. MMA embolization before inflammation may not play a role in preventing CSDH development because MMA embolization is considered effective in CSDH because it is associated with the blood supply of neovessels that are newly formed due to inflammation. Therefore, MMA embolization might not be effective in preventing the occurrence of CSDH following craniotomy.

Brain re-expansion predict the recurrence of unilateral CSDH: A clinical grading system

Objective

Assessing the risk of postoperative recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a clinical focus. To screen the main factors associated with the perioperative hematoma recurrence. The brain re-expansion is the core factor of recurrence. A clinical prognostic scoring system was also proposed.

Methods

We included 295 patients with unilateral CSDH as the training group for modeling. Factors predicting postoperative recurrence requiring reoperation (RrR) were determined using univariate and multivariate regression analyses, and bivariate Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used to exclude related factors. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis evaluates the ability of main factors to predict RrR and determines the cut-off value of brain re-expansion rate. We developed a prognostic scoring system and conducted preliminary verification. A verification group including 119 patients with unilateral CSDH was used to verify the grading systems.

Results

The key factors for predicting unilateral CSDH recurrence were cerebral re-expansion rate (≤ 40%) at postoperative days 7–9 (OR 25.91, p < 0.001) and the preoperative CT density classification (isodense or hyperdense, or separated or laminar types) (OR 8.19, p = 0.007). Cerebral atrophy played a key role in brain re-expansion (OR 2.36, p = 0.002). The CSDH prognostic grading system ranged from 0 to 3. An increased score was associated with a more accurate progressive increase in the RrR rate (AUC = 0.856).

Conclusions

Our prognostic grading system could screen clinically high-risk RrR patients with unilateral CSDH. However, increased attention should be paid to brain re-expansion rate after surgery in patients with CSDH.

Recurrent Spontaneous Bilateral Subdural Hemorrhage as a Consequence of High-Cervical Spontaneous CSF Leak—Lessons for Neurosurgeons

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is rare. It presents as intractable posture headache and is identified by radiological findings. It is confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) manometry and myelography, and treatment is carried out with the help of epidural blood patch (EBP) therapy. SIH presenting with spontaneous bilateral recurrent subdural bleeds is uncommon. The cause being a high-spinal CSF leak is even more uncommon! Our patient had recurrent bilateral spontaneous chronic subdural hematomas. Myelographic examination of the spine showed a C1–C2 level leak of CSF. He was taken up for open microsurgery, and the leak was identified and closed with fibrin glue. The patient however deteriorated the next day. An EBP was applied in the lumbar region to cover the myelogram lumbar puncture site. We present a review of literature and an algorithm to detect the elusive CSF leak and effect definitive treatment, either open or EBP, to treat the source of the problem.

Extensive postoperative subdural fluid volume affects the onset of chronic subdural hematoma after unruptured aneurysmal clipping surgery

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate risk factors associated with chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) onset after clipping surgery for unruptured intracranial aneurysm, and determine whether intraoperative conventional arachnoid-plasty (ARP) can suppress the CSDH onset by reducing subdural fluid volume.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 217 patients who underwent surgical clipping at our institution from 2012 to 2018. Risk and predictive factors for symptomatic CSDH development including clinical characteristics, postoperative subdural fluid volume, Hounsfield unit (HU) value of subdural fluid density evaluated by CT and the effect of conventional ARP were compared between CSDH and non-CSDH groups.

RESULTS

Of 217 patients who underwent surgical clipping for anterior circulation aneurysm, 209 were included in this study. Among whom, postoperative CSDH, required burr irrigation, occurred in 12 (5.7%). Mean age was significantly higher in the CSDH group (70 ± 8 years) than in the non-CSDH group (64 ± 11 years, p = 0.03). Subdural fluid volumes on postoperative day (POD)1, POD8 and POD30 were significantly larger in the CSDH group than in the non-CSDH group (38.4 ± 33.5 cm³, 54.8 ± 36.3 cm³, 77.2 ± 36.1 cm³ vs 10.0 ± 7.7 cm³, 16.1 ± 12.8 cm³, 14.0 ± 17.5 cm³, p < 0.001, respectively). However, intraoperative conventional ARP did not reduce postoperative subdural fluid volume nor suppress onset of CSDH. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed extensive subdural fluid volume as the only risk factor independently associated with CSDH development.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, postoperative large subdural fluid volume represented an independent risk factor associated with the incidence of CSDH after unruptured aneurysmal clipping. Reducing subdural fluid volume strategy could suppress the onset of CSDH after surgery.

Intraoperative Mannitol Administration Increases the Risk of Postoperative Chronic Subdural Hemorrhage After Unruptured Aneurysm Surgery

OBJECTIVE

Although mannitol is used widely to facilitate brain retraction in cases of ruptured aneurysms, there is no consensus about the intraoperative administration of mannitol in the case of unruptured aneurysms. Accordingly, this study was conducted to identify an intraoperative mannitol administration strategy.

METHODS

Mannitol was administered routinely to patients (n = 90) from January 2015 to April 2016 and not administered to patients (n = 97) from May 2016 to June 2017. The patient groups with and without mannitol administration were then compared based on the patient medical records, radiologic data, and digital recordings from an intraoperative microscope.

RESULTS

The patient groups with and without mannitol administration were comparable regarding patient age, number of elderly patients, sex, and aneurysm locations. No between-group difference was identified in terms of the intradural procedural time, retraction-induced cortical injury, postoperative electrolyte imbalance, symptomatic infarction, and postoperative epidural hematomas. However, the patient group without mannitol administration showed a significantly lower incidence of chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) >50 mL (13.3% vs. 3.1%, P = 0.010). Moreover, a multivariate analysis revealed that an advanced age (P = 0.019), male sex (P <0.001), and mannitol administration (P = 0.040) were all statistically significant risk factors for a postoperative CSDH >50 mL following unruptured aneurysm surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Withholding the administration of mannitol during a pterional or modified procedure for unruptured aneurysms was found to reduce the postoperative occurrence of a CSDH without increasing the operative difficulties or other postoperative complications.

The Clinical Characteristics, Treatment, and Outcomes of Chronic Subdural Hematoma in Young Patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of chronic subdural hematomas (CSDH) in young patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed young patients under 40 years of age who received diagnoses of and were surgically treated for CSDH between August 2011 and May 2017. Clinical data, computed tomographic findings, surgical outcomes, and recurrence were collected for further analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients (92 male; 91.1%) were analyzed. Ages ranged from 1 to 40 years (27.3 ± 10.5), and 59 (58.4%) patients had a history of recent head trauma. The most frequent symptoms were headache (86.1%) and dizziness (26.7%). A total of 60 (59.4%) patients had arachnoid cyst (AC), and 8 (7.9%) patients had ventriculoperitoneal (V-P) shunt. After burr hole drainage craniotomy, all patients experienced good outcomes, and 1 patient experienced recurrence requiring reoperation. Sixty-eight patients with AC/V-P shunts had a higher incidence of head trauma (P = 0.014), younger age at onset (P < 0.001), and lower incidence of dizziness (P = 0.013) than did those without AC/V-P shunts. Surgical recurrence rates and outcomes did not differ significantly between patients with and without AC/V-P shunts.

CONCLUSIONS

Headache is the most common symptom, and AC/V-P shunts are risk factors of CSDH in young patients. AC/V-P shunt-associated CSDH is associated with younger morbidity. Head trauma is a risk factor for AC/V-P shunt-associated CSDH, but is not significance in patients without AC/V-P shunts. Catheter drainage through a burr hole may be the first-choice surgical procedure in treatment of CSDH in young patients, including AC/V-P shunt-associated CSDH.

Modified Arachnoid Plasty Reduces Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Unruptured Aneurysm Clipping : Technical Note

Objective

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a rare complication of unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) clipping surgery. To prevent postoperative CSDH by reducing subdural fluid collection, we applied the modified arachnoid plasty (MAP) during the UIA clipping surgery to seal the dissected arachnoid plane.

Methods

This retrospective study included 286 patients enrolled from July 2012 to May 2015. We performed arachnoid plasty in all patients, with MAP used after June 17, 2014. Patients were divided into two groups (non-MAP vs. MAP), and by using uni- and multivariate analyses, baseline characteristics, and relationships with postoperative CSDH between the two groups were analyzed. The degree of preoperative brain atrophy was estimated using the bicaudate ratio (BCR) index.

Results

Ten patients (3.5%) among 286 patients had postoperative CSDH after clipping. Nine (3.1%) were in the non-MAP group, and one (0.9%) was in the MAP group. The higher BCR index showed statistical significance with occurrence of postoperative CSDH in both uni- (p=0.018) and multivariate (p=0.012; odds ratio [OR], 8.547; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.616–45.455) analyses. MAP was associated with a lower risk of postoperative CSDH (p=0.022; OR, 0.068; 95% CI, 0.007–0.683).

Conclusion

This study shows that the degree of preoperative brain atrophy is associated with an increased occurrence of CSDH after clipping and that MAP could help reduce the risk of postoperative CSDH after unruptured aneurysm clipping via a lateral supraorbital approach.

Postoperative Subdural Air Collection Is a Risk Factor for Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Surgical Clipping of Cerebral Aneurysms

The precise mechanism of the development of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) as a postoperative complication after aneurysmal clipping remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the independent risk factors for CSDH after craniotomy for aneurysmal clipping and to elucidate the relationship between CSDH and subdural air (SDA) collection immediately after surgery. The medical records and radiologic data of 344 patients who underwent surgical clipping of unruptured aneurysms from July 2010 to July 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Patient characteristics, aneurysm characteristics, and operation data were statistically analyzed to reveal their relationships with CSDH development. Among the 344 patients, 46 (13.4%) developed CSDH and 13 (3.8%) required subsequent burr-hole surgery for evacuation and irrigation. Multivariate analyses showed that advanced age (P < 0.0001), male sex (P = 0.035), and surgical clipping of multiple aneurysms (P = 0.037) were independent preoperative predictors of CSDH development. Advanced age (P = 0.0005) and postoperative SDA after clipping surgery (P < 0.0001) were independent postoperative predictors of CSDH development. Postoperative SDA and CSDH were not associated with the individual surgeon or operation time. Postoperative severe SDA was significantly associated with the ipsilateral development of CSDH, irrespective of the side of craniotomy. Postoperative SDA is an independent risk factor for CSDH after surgical clipping of unruptured aneurysms and is as important as advanced age, male sex, and surgical clipping of multiple aneurysms in predicting CSDH.

Validation of effectiveness of keyhole clipping in nonfrail elderly patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Advanced age is known to be associated with a poor prognosis after surgical clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs). Keyhole clipping techniques have been introduced for less invasive treatment of UIAs. In this study, the authors compared the complications and clinical and radiological outcomes after keyhole clipping between nonfrail elderly patients (≥ 70 years) and nonelderly patients.

METHODS

Keyhole clipping (either supraorbital or pterional) was performed to treat 260 cases of relatively small (≤ 10 mm) anterior circulation UIAs. There were 62 cases in the nonfrail elderly group (mean age 72.9 ± 2.6 years [± SD]) and 198 cases in the nonelderly group (mean age 59.5 ± 7.6 years). The authors evaluated mortality and morbidity (modified Rankin Scale score > 2 or Mini–Mental State Examination [MMSE] score < 24) at 3 months and 1 year after the operation, the general cognitive function by MMSE at 3 months and 1 year, anxiety and depression by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) at 3 months, and radiological abnormalities and recurrence at 1 year.

RESULTS

Basic characteristics including comorbidities, frailty, and BDI and HAM-D scores were not significantly different between the 2 groups, whereas the MMSE score was slightly but significantly lower in the elderly group. Aneurysm location, largest diameter, type of keyhole surgery, neck clipping rate, and hospitalization period were not significantly different between the 2 groups. The incidence of chronic subdural hematoma was not significantly higher in the elderly group than in the nonelderly group (8.1% vs 4.5%, p = 0.332); rates of other complications including stroke and epilepsy were not significantly different. Lacunar infarction occurred in 3.2% of the elderly group and 3.0% of the nonelderly group. No patient in the elderly group required re-treatment or demonstrated recurrence of clipped aneurysms. The MMSE score at 3 months significantly improved in the nonelderly group but did not change in the elderly group. The BDI and HAM-D scores at 3 months were significantly improved in both groups. No patient died in either group. The morbidity at 3 months and 1 year in the elderly group (1.6% and 4.8%, respectively) was not significantly different from that in the nonelderly group (2.0% and 1.5%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Keyhole clipping for nonfrail elderly patients with relatively small anterior circulation UIAs did not significantly increase the complication, mortality, or morbidity rate; hospitalization period; or aneurysm recurrence compared with nonelderly patients, and it was associated with improvement in anxiety and depression. Keyhole clipping to treat UIAs in the nonfrail elderly is an effective and long-lasting treatment.

Surgery for chronic subdural hematoma in nonagenarians: A Scandinavian population-based multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a prevalent condition often seen in the elderly, with surgery being the treatment of choice when symptomatic. So far, few have explored the surgical outcomes in patients 90 years or older. The aim of this study was to investigate outcome after cSDH surgery in nonagenarians (≥90 y/o group) compared to younger adult patients (<90 y/o group).

MATERIALS

In a Scandinavian population-based cohort we conducted a retrospective review of 1,254 patients undergoing primary burr-hole procedures for cSDH between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2010 at three neurosurgical centers. In a comparative analysis, the primary end-point was difference in hematoma recurrence rates between the ≥90 y/o and <90 y/o groups. The secondary end-points were differences in perioperative morbidity and mortality between groups.

RESULTS

75 patients were 90 years or older. There was no significant difference in recurrences resulting in reoperation between the age groups (10.7% vs 13.6%, P=.47). There was also no significant difference in overall complication rate (4.1% vs 8.1%, P=.21) or severe complications (1.4% vs 2.0%, P=.68). There were three (4.0%) perioperative deaths within 30 days in the ≥90 y/o group and 40 (3.4%) in the <90 y/o group (P=.78).

CONCLUSION

Patients 90 years or older had similar rates of recurrence, perioperative morbidity and perioperative mortality as compared to younger patients. Age alone should not be a contraindication for surgery in patients with cSDH.

Predictors of Recurrence and Complications After Chronic Subdural Hematoma Surgery: A Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate predictors of recurrence and moderate to severe complications after burr-hole surgery for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH).

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted in a Scandinavian single-center population-based cohort of 759 adult patients with cSDH operated with burr-hole surgery between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2010. Possible predictors of recurrence and complications, assessed using a standardized reporting system of adverse events, were identified and analyzed in univariable analyses. Variables with a P value < 0.10 were included in a multivariable regression model.

RESULTS

Recurrence was observed in 85 patients (11.2%), whereas moderate to severe complications were observed in 35 patients (4.6%). Bilateral hematoma (odds ratio [OR], 2.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25-3.35; P < 0.01) and largest hematoma diameter in millimeters (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.09; P < 0.01) were independent predictors of recurrence in the multivariable model analysis. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of <13 (OR, 6.06; 95% CI, 2.72-13.51; P < 0.01) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) >1 (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.10-4.75; P = 0.03) were independent predictors of moderate to severe complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrence after cSDH surgery is more often encountered in patients with radiologically more extensive disease reflected by bilateral hematoma and large hematoma diameter. On the other hand, moderate to severe complications are more often seen in patients in a worse clinical condition, reflected by decreased level of consciousness and more comorbidities.

Efficacy of Arachnoid-Plasty on Chronic Subdural Hematoma Following Surgical Clipping of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

We aimed to elucidate the effects of arachnoid plasty (ARP) on chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) occurrence following clipping surgery.

METHODS

In total 217 patients (ARP, n = 97; non-ARP, n = 120) who had undergone unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA) surgical clipping via the pterional approach were retrospectively assessed. Predisposing factors for CSDH development following the surgery were investigated. Thickness and volume of the subdural fluid collection (SDFC) were measured to determine whether ARP affects postoperative SDFC.

RESULTS

The occurrence of postoperative CSDH was higher in patients without ARP compared to those with ARP (12.5 vs. 3.1%; P = 0.01). In multivariate analyses, having an SDFC volume ≥15 mL on postoperative day (POD) 8, (odds ratio [OR] = 15.113; range = 3.159-72.290), and male sex (OR = 4.274; range = 1.291-14.148) were identified as independent predictive factors. Having had ARP (OR = 0.228; range = 0.056-0.927) was, as an independent variable, negatively correlated with the occurrence of CSDH (P < 0.05). Moreover, SDFC volume ≥15 ml on POD 8 was significantly less common in the ARP group compared with the non-ARP group (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent ARPs developed fewer CSDHs following UIA clipping surgery. The factors that predicted the development of CSDH included male sex, SDFC volume on POD 8, and ARP. In addition, the ARP patients had lower SDFC volumes (<15 mL). These findings suggested that ARP reduced the incidence of CSDHs after surgical clippings in patients with unruptured aneurysms.

Incidence and risk factors of subdural hematoma after intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage during the transsphenoidal approach

PURPOSE

The transsphenoidal approach (TSA) is regarded as the first line of treatment for sellar and suprasellar lesions. There are only few case reports of postoperative subdural hematoma after TSA and extended transsphenoidal approach (eTSA), and the detailed incidence and risk factors for this complication are still unknown. We reviewed the incidence and risk factors for subdural hematoma after TSA and eTSA.

METHODS

Between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2014, 165 consecutive patients underwent TSA or eTSA at Nagoya University Hospital and Nagoya Daini Red Cross Hospital. Fifty-one patients experienced intraoperative CSF leakage. Postoperative subdural hematoma was observed in 10 patients, all of whom experienced intraoperative CSF leakage. We reviewed clinical data including CT and MR images and examined factors related to subdural hematoma among patients with intraoperative CSF leakage.

RESULTS

In univariate statistical analyses, risk factors for postoperative subdural hematoma were advanced age, high Evans' index, and preoperative hypopituitarism. These factors were also significant in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. There were no statistical differences in sex, tumor size, approach methods, preoperative diabetes insipidus, or degree of intraoperative CSF leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of postoperative subdural hematoma after intraoperative CSF leakage during TSA and eTSA was higher than the incidence reported in patients after craniotomy. Intraoperative CSF leakage should be avoided as much as possible, especially in patients with brain atrophy and/or enlargement of the ventricular system, even if the intent of the reconstruction technique is authenticity. In addition, patients with hypopituitarism should be carefully followed up after surgery.

Predicting Factors of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Following Surgical Clipping in Unruptured and Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysm

Objective

The aim of this study is to analyze the differences in the incidence, predicting factors, and clinical course of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) following surgical clipping between unruptured (UIA) and ruptured intracranial aneurysm (RIA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 752 patients (UIA : 368 and RIA : 384) who underwent surgical clipping during 8 years. The incidence and predicting factors of CSDH development in the UIA and RIA were compared according to medical records and radiological data.

Results

The incidence of postoperative CSDH was higher in the UIA (10.9%) than in the RIA (3.1%) (p=0.000). In multivariate analysis, a high Hounsfield (HF) unit (blood clots) for subdural fluid collection (SFC), persistence of SFC ≥5 mm and male sex in the UIA and A high HF unit for SFC and SFC ≥5 mm without progression to hydrocephalus in the RIA were identified as the independent predicting factors for CSDH development (p<0.05).

Conclusion

There were differences in the incidence and predicting factors for CSDH following surgical clipping between UIA and RIA. Blood clots in the subdural space and persistence of SFC ≥5 mm were predicting factors in both UIA and RIA. However, progression to hydrocephalus may have in part contributed to low CSDH development in the RIA. We suggest that cleaning of blood clots in the subdural space and efforts to minimize SFC ≥5 mm at the end of surgery is helpful to prevent CSDH following aneurysmal clipping.

Spontaneous chronic subdural hematomas in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with normal platelet count and no appreciable brain atrophy: Two case reports and review of literature

Background:

Chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) usually occur in elderly patients following minor head trauma. Their occurrence is usually linked to cerebral atrophy secondary to alcohol, old age, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Spontaneous CSDHs have also been documented but are rare. They are usually caused by coagulopathies and various pathologies resulting in intracranial hypotension.

Cases:

We have observed a number of spontaneous CSDHs in HIV patients with normal platelet counts and no appreciable cerebral atrophy possibly caused by platelet dysfunction, hence we report about two such cases. To the best of our knowledge, no such cases have been reported in literature before.

Conclusion:

It is important to include CSDHs in the differential diagnosis of HIV patients presenting with neurological deficits even without a history of trauma.

Delayed chronic intracranial subdural hematoma complicating resection of a tanycytic thoracic ependymoma

Background:

To demonstrate that the diagnosis of an intracranial subdural hematoma should be considered for patients presenting with acute or delayed symptoms of intracranial pathology following resection of a spinal tumor.

Case Description:

We present a case of a 57-year-old woman found to have a chronic subdural hematoma 1 month following resection of a thoracic extramedullary ependymoma. Evacuation of the hematoma through a burr hole relieved the presenting symptoms and signs. Resolution of the hematoma was confirmed with a computed tomography (CT) scan.

Conclusion:

Headache and other symptoms not referable to spinal pathology should be regarded as a warning sign of an intracranial subdural hematoma, and a CT scan of the head should be obtained. The mechanism of the development of the hematoma may be related to the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid with subsequent intracranial hypotension leading to an expanding subdural space and hemorrhage.

Postoperative subdural hygroma and chronic subdural hematoma after unruptured aneurysm surgery: age, sex, and aneurysm location as independent risk factors

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the incidence and risk factors for the postoperative occurrence of subdural complications, such as a subdural hygroma and resultant chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), following surgical clipping of an unruptured aneurysm. The critical age affecting such occurrences and follow-up results were also examined.

METHODS

The case series included 364 consecutive patients who underwent aneurysm clipping via a pterional or superciliary keyhole approach for an unruptured saccular aneurysm in the anterior cerebral circulation between 2007 and 2013. The subdural hygromas were identified based on CT scans 6-9 weeks after surgery, and the volumes were measured using volumetry studies. Until their complete resolution, all the subdural hygromas were followed using CT scans every 1-2 months. Meanwhile, the CSDHs were classified as nonoperative or operative lesions that were treated by bur-hole drainage. The age and sex of the patients, aneurysm location, history of a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and surgical approach (pterional vs superciliary) were all analyzed regarding the postoperative occurrence of a subdural hygroma or CSDH. The follow-up results of the subdural complications were also investigated.

RESULTS

Seventy patients (19.2%) developed a subdural hygroma or CSDH. The results of a multivariate analysis showed that advanced age (p = 0.003), male sex (p < 0.001), middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm (p = 0.045), and multiple concomitant aneurysms at the MCA and anterior communicating artery (ACoA) (p < 0.001) were all significant risk factors of a subdural hygroma and CSDH. In addition, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed a cut-off age of > 60 years, which achieved a 70% sensitivity and 69% specificity with regard to predicting such subdural complications. The female patients ≤ 60 years of age showed a negligible incidence of subdural complications for all aneurysm groups, whereas the male patients > 60 years of age showed the highest incidence of subdural complications at 50%-100%, according to the aneurysm location. The subdural hygromas detected 6-9 weeks postoperatively showed different follow-up results, according to the severity. The subdural hygromas that converted to a CSDH were larger in volume than the subdural hygromas that resolved spontaneously (28.4 ± 16.8 ml vs 59.6 ± 38.4 ml, p = 0.003). Conversion to a CSDH was observed in 31.3% (5 of 16), 64.3% (9 of 14), and 83.3% (5 of 6) of the patients with mild, moderate, and severe subdural hygromas, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced age, male sex, and an aneurysm location requiring extensive arachnoid dissection (MCA aneurysms and multiple concomitant aneurysms at the MCA and ACoA) are all correlated with the occurrence of a subdural hygroma and CSDH after unruptured aneurysm surgery. The critical age affecting such an occurrence is 60 years.

Intraoperative Arachnoid Plasty Has Possibility to Prevent Chronic Subdural Hematoma after Surgery for Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysms

Some patients develop chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) after the clipping/coating of unruptured aneurysms. The risk factors are not well understood and while no preventive methods are currently available, arachnoid plasty (ARP) may intercept the development of postoperative CSDH. We investigated the risk factors for CSDH and the usefulness of ARP to prevent postoperative CSDH. Between January 2009 and June 2013, 393 patients underwent 416 aneurysm surgeries via the pterional approach at Kushiro Kojinkai Memorial Hospital. Of these, 394 aneurysms (371 patients) were included in this study. Using multivariate analysis we evaluated the relationship between the patient demographics and clinical characteristics, and the development of postoperative symptomatic CSDH. We also studied the effect of ARP performed during aneurysm surgery. We found that symptomatic CSDH developed after 20 (5.1%) of the 394 operations; it was addressed by burr hole surgery and evacuation/irrigation. Male gender, advanced age, and oral anticoagulant therapy were significant risk factors for CSDH. Additive ARP, performed in the course of 132 surgeries (33.5%) was found to be a significant negative risk factor. The incidence of CSDH was significantly lower in patients who had undergone ARP than in patients who had not undergone it (0.8% vs. 7.3%, p < 0.01). We first report that ARP is useful for the prevention of CSDH in patients treated by aneurysm surgery.

Incidence and risk factors of chronic subdural hematoma after surgical clipping for unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a rare complication of unruptured aneurysm clipping surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify the incidence and risk factors of postoperative CSDH after surgical clipping for unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 518 patients from a single tertiary institute from January 2008 to December 2013. CSDH was defined as subdural hemorrhage which needed surgical treatment. The degree of brain atrophy was estimated using the bicaudate ratio (BCR) index. We used uni- and multivariate analyses to identify risk factors correlated with CSDH.

RESULTS

Sixteen (3.1%) patients experienced postoperative CSDH that required burr hole drainage surgery. In univariate analyses, male gender (p<0.001), size of aneurysm (p=0.030), higher BCR index (p=0.004), and the use of antithrombotic medication (p=0.006) were associated with postoperative CSDH. In multivariate analyses using logistic regression test, male gender [odds ratio (OR) 4.037, range 1.287-12.688], high BCR index (OR 5.376, range 1.170-25.000), and the use of antithrombotic medication (OR 4.854, range 1.658-14.085) were associated with postoperative CSDH (p<0.05). Postoperative subdural fluid collection and arachnoid plasty were not showed statistically significant difference in this study.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CSDH was 3.1% in unruptured anterior circulation aneurysm surgery. This study shows that male gender, degree of brain atrophy, and the use of antithrombotic medication were associated with postoperative CSDH.

Spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak as the cause of chronic subdural hematomas in nongeriatric patients

Object

The etiology of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) in nongeriatric patients (≤ 60 years old) often remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to identify spinal CSF leaks in young patients, after formulating the hypothesis that spinal CSF leaks are causally related to CSDH.

Methods

All consecutive patients 60 years of age or younger who underwent operations for CSDH between September 2009 and April 2011 at Bern University Hospital were included in this prospective cohort study. The patient workup included an extended search for a spinal CSF leak using a systematic algorithm: MRI of the spinal axis with or without intrathecal contrast application, myelography/fluoroscopy, and postmyelography CT. Spinal pathologies were classified according to direct proof of CSF outflow from the intrathecal to the extrathecal space, presence of extrathecal fluid accumulation, presence of spinal meningeal cysts, or no pathological findings. The primary outcome was proof of a CSF leak.

Results

Twenty-seven patients, with a mean age of 49.6 ± 9.2 years, underwent operations for CSDH. Hematomas were unilateral in 20 patients and bilateral in 7 patients. In 7 (25.9%) of 27 patients, spinal CSF leakage was proven, in 9 patients (33.3%) spinal meningeal cysts in the cervicothoracic region were found, and 3 patients (11.1%) had spinal cysts in the sacral region. The remaining 8 patients (29.6%) showed no pathological findings.

Conclusions

The direct proof of spinal CSF leakage in 25.9% of patients suggests that spinal CSF leaks may be a frequent cause of nongeriatric CSDH.

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.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors of chronic subdural haematoma associated with clipping of unruptured cerebral aneurysms

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of clipping unruptured cerebral aneurysms. We conducted a study to identify the patients who are at risk of developing postoperative CSDH. The data from 713 consecutive patients who underwent clipping of unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms were reviewed, and risk factors correlated with CSDH were identified by multivariate regression analysis of demographic variables. Fifteen patients (2.1%) developed CSDH after the surgery. Advanced age (odds ratio [OR] 1.151, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.051-1.261) and male gender (OR 3.167, 95% CI 1.028-9.751) were correlated with CSDH. Subsequently, all 713 patients were quadrichotomized on the basis of gender and age, with 70 years as the cut-off value for age. The frequency of CSDH in men <70 years of age was 1.3% and that in men ≥70 years of age was 15.1%, with risk of CSDH was significantly higher in the older men (OR 13.39; 95% CI: 3.42-52.44). The frequency of CSDH in women <70 years of age was 0.6% and that in women ≥70 years of age was 3.7%. As in men, the risk of CSDH was significantly higher in the older women (OR 6.69, 95% CI 1.10-40.73). The interval between the aneurysm clipping and CSDH development was 0.5-6 months, suggesting that clinical observation should be continued up to 6 months after surgery. Although prognosis for patients with a postoperative CSDH complication is generally favourable, the risk of CSDH should be taken into account when considering elective clipping of unruptured aneurysms in patients ≥70 years of age.

Incidence and risk factors of chronic subdural hematoma after aneurysmal clipping

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) after aneurysmal clipping is a rare complication, but its incidence and risk factors are not known in detail. We retrospectively reviewed our cases requiring surgery for CSDH after clipping.

METHODS

In our hospital, between January 2000 and December 2006, 794 patients (unruptured, 58.0%) underwent clipping surgery for aneurysm of the anterior circulation. We reviewed incidence and risk factors of CSDH after clipping. For the past 2 years, we reviewed all computed tomography scans for 163 unruptured aneurysms, and examined the relationship between an increase of subdural fluid collection (SFC) and development of CSDH.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (1.9%) developed CSDH after clipping, which required evacuation. Among those, 13 had unruptured aneurysms (2.8%), a much higher percentage than for ruptured aneurysms (0.9%). On univariate statistical analysis, risk factors of CSDH were associated with advanced age (P = 0.0005), male gender (P = 0.04), and unruptured aneurysms (P = 0.02). Aneurysmal location was not related to the development of postoperative CSDH. Contralateral CSDH occurred in 3 patients, but no middle cerebral artery aneurysm developed contralateral CSDH. An increase in postoperative SFC during 1 week was a significant risk factor for CSDH (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to the classic risk factors, this study showed that clipping for unruptured aneurysms carries a higher risk for CSDH compared to ruptured aneurysms. We suggest that an increase of SFC during 1 week postoperatively can be a factor in predicting CSDH after clipping.

A preliminary study of aquaporin 1 immunolocalization in chronic subdural hematoma membranes

Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) is a molecular water channel expressed in many anatomical locations, particularly in epithelial barriers specialized in water transport. The aim of this study was to investigate AQP1 expression in chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) membranes. In this preliminary study, 11 patients with CSDH underwent burr hole craniectomy and drainage. Membrane specimens were stained with a monoclonal antibody targeting AQP1 for immunohistochemical analysis. The endothelial cells of the sinusoid capillaries of the outer membranes exhibited an elevated immunoreactivity to AQP1 antibody compared to the staining intensity of specimens from the inner membrane and normal dura. These findings suggest that the outer membrane might be the source of the increased fluid accumulation responsible for chronic hematoma enlargement.

[Chronic subdural hematoma in patients under 35 years of age]

OBJECTIVE

Although chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is considered a condition of the elderly, it may also occur in younger patients. The objective of this study was to identify the cause of CSDH in younger patients.

METHOD

In a group of 100 consecutive patients with CSDH diagnosed in our hospital between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2003, we found nine patients to be younger than 35. These nine were assessed to identify their cause of CSDH.

RESULTS

We found a predisposing cause in five of nine patients, three having a disorder of CSF balance, and two having a clotting disorder. Trauma was reported in only two of these five patients. Among the four patients without a predisposing factor a trauma was reported in three of them. In only one patient the cause of CSDH remained unknown. All patients made a complete recovery.

CONCLUSION

Chronic subdural haematoma did also occur in younger patients. Trauma, CSF imbalance, and deranged clotting increase the risk of CSDH, however this disorder can also occur in the absence of identifiable predisposing factors or trauma.

Contralateral acute epidural haematoma following evacuation of a chronic subdural haematoma with burr-hole craniostomy and continuous closed system drainage: a rare complication

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is one of the most frequent causes for neurosurgical intervention. Although the prognosis is generally good and treatment modalities are well established, some devastating intracranial haematomas can complicate its evacuation. The authors report here a case of an acute epidural haematoma occurring after evacuation of a contralateral chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) with burr-hole craniostomy and continuous closed system drainage without irrigation. Since this is a rare, but potentially life-threatening, complication, clinicians should suspect its occurrence when an unexpected postoperative course is demonstrated.

High intraoperative blood loss may be a risk factor for postoperative hematoma

The authors studied the incidence of postoperative intracranial hematoma to improve care after intracranial surgery. Five years (1995-1999) of surgical records were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were included if evacuation of an intracranial postoperative hematoma was reported. A control group was randomly selected. Forty-nine patients (0.8%) had postoperative hematomas requiring evacuation. The amount of intraoperative blood loss was significantly larger in the hematoma group (762 +/-735 mL [median 500 mL]) than in the control group (415 +/-403 mL; median 300 mL) (P = 0.004). Clinical deterioration occurred within the first 24 hours in 80%, within 6 hours in 51%, and within 1 hour in 12% of the patients. Those who deteriorated within 24 hours had a faster and more life-threatening deterioration than those who had a hematoma after 24 hours. A decreased level of consciousness was found in 61% and increased focal neurologic signs were found in 33% of the patients. An elevated intracranial pressure was seen significantly more often in the hematoma group (9/10 patients, 90%) than in the control group (1/8 patients, 12.5%) (P = 0.001). In this study, a large amount of intraoperative blood loss and elevated intracranial pressure were warning signs of postoperative hematoma and should alert the clinician to the increased risk. Most hematomas occurred within 24 hours after surgery, and in this time period the deterioration was more severe compared with the hematomas that occurred later.