Subdural hematomas: an analysis of 1181 Kashmiri patients

Comparison of Postoperative Seizures Between Burr-Hole Evacuation and Craniotomy in Patients With Nonacute Subdural Hematomas: A Bi-Institutional Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Postoperative seizures are a common complication after surgical drainage of nonacute chronic subdural hematomas (SDHs). The literature increasingly supports the use of prophylactic antiepileptic drugs for craniotomy, a procedure that is often associated with larger collections and worse clinical status at admission. This study aimed to compare the incidence of postoperative seizures in patients treated with burr-hole drainage and those treated with craniotomy through propensity score matching (PSM).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on patients with surgical drainage of nonacute SDHs (burr-holes and craniotomies) between January 2017 to December 2021 at 2 academic institutions in the United States. PSM was performed by controlling for age, subdural thickness, subacute component, and preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale. Seizure rates and accompanying abnormalities on electroencephalographic tracing were evaluated postmatching.

RESULTS

A total of 467 patients with 510 nonacute SDHs underwent 474 procedures, with 242 burr-hole evacuations (51.0%) and 232 craniotomies (49.0%). PSM resulted in 62 matched pairs. After matching, univariate analysis revealed that burr-hole evacuations exhibited lower rates of seizures (1.6% vs 11.3%; P = .03) and abnormal electroencephalographic findings (0.0% vs 4.8%; P = .03) compared with craniotomies. No significant differences were observed in postoperative Glasgow Coma Scale (P = .77) and length of hospital stay (P = .61).

CONCLUSION

Burr-hole evacuation demonstrated significantly lower seizure rates than craniotomy using a propensity score-matched analysis controlling for significant variables.

Focal aware somatosensory seizures with paresis as a complication of surgery for chronic subdural hematoma

There has been only one previous published report of focal aware somatosensory seizures with paresis as a postoperative complication of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). This is the second case report of this condition captured on electroencephalography (EEG) as a postoperative complication of cSDH. A 76-year-old man with no history of epilepsy was taken to the emergency department of Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital because of transient weakness of the lower extremities. Head computed tomography showed bilateral cSDH that was larger on the left. Seven days after burr-hole evacuation of the left cSDH, the patient experienced a brief clonic seizure of the right hand without postoperative recurrence of cSDH. He then experienced a tingling sensation in, followed by clumsiness and weakness of, the right upper extremity without fluctuations in consciousness or convulsive movements. These symptoms appeared repeatedly, with intermittent improvement, persisting for 6 days after onset. Scalp EEG showed an electrographic seizure in the left central area, suggesting that the symptoms corresponded to focal aware somatosensory seizures with paresis. The symptoms and epileptiform patterns and electrographic seizures on the EEG disappeared with antiseizure medications.

Factors Associated With Short-Term Outcomes of Burr-Hole Craniostomy Associated With Brain Re-Expansion and Subdural Hematoma Shrinkage for Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Objective

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a commonly encountered neurosurgical pathology that frequently requires surgical intervention. With an increasingly aging demographic, more older people and patients with comorbidities will present with symptomatic CSDH. This study evaluated clinical and laboratory factors affecting the short-term outcomes of CSDH after surgical intervention.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 170 patients who underwent burr-hole trephination for CSDH in a single institution from January 2019 to December 2021. All patients were examined for risk factors and evaluated for hematoma thickness change and midline shifting on brain computed tomography (CT) scans at 3 days after burr-hole trephination.

Results

This consecutive series of patients included 114 males (67.1%) and 56 females (32.9%); mean age 72.4±12.5 years. Renal disease (p=0.044) and prior intracranial hemorrhage (p=0.004) were clinical factors associated with poorer prognosis. A statistically significant association was found between initial laboratory findings, including high creatine kinase (p=0.025) and low platelet (p=0.036) levels, and CT findings 3 days postoperatively. The 3-day mean arterial pressure and postoperative ambulation were not significantly associated with outcomes.

Conclusion

Burr-hole craniostomy is an effective surgical procedure for initial CSDH. However, patients with a history intracranial hemorrhage and abnormal laboratory findings, such as low platelet levels, who underwent burr-hole trephination had poor short-term outcomes. Therefore, these patients should be carefully monitored.

Comparison of surgical strategies in patients with chronic subdural haematoma: a protocol for a network meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical emergencies, especially in the elderly population. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for CSDH. Some studies have suggested that some specific surgical strategies can have potential benefits for patients with CSDH; however, the best surgical method is still controversial. For a better understanding of surgical treatment for these patients, it is necessary to conduct a network meta-analysis to comprehensively compare the effects of medical treatment and different surgical methods.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This protocol has been reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols. Related studies published up to April 2023 will be searched in the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP and Wanfang. Randomised controlled trials and non-randomised prospective studies comparing at least two different interventions for patients with CSDH will be included. Quality assessment will be conducted using Cochrane Collaboration's tool or the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale based on study design. The primary outcome will be the recurrence rates, and the secondary outcome will be the functional outcome at the end of follow-up. Pairwise and network meta-analyses will be conducted using STATA V.14 (StataCorp, College Station, Texas, USA). Mean ranks and the surface under the cumulative ranking curve will be used to evaluate each intervention. Statistical inconsistency assessment, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessment will be performed.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval is not necessary because this study will be based on publications. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022376829.

Seizure after chronic subdural hematoma evacuation: associated factors and effect on clinical outcome

Objective

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease in neurosurgery, which usually occurs in the elderly. Seizure is one of the postoperative complications in CSDH patients and can affect patient outcomes. There is currently no consensus on whether antiepileptic drugs should be prescribed prophylactically. The aim of this study was to evaluate independent risk factors for postoperative seizures and unfavorable outcomes in CSDH patients.

Methods

We reviewed 1,244 CSDH patients who had undergone burr-hole craniotomy in this study. Patient clinical data, CT scan results, recurrence and outcome data were collected. We divided the patients into two groups based on whether they had a postoperative seizure. Percentages and χ² tests were applied for categorical variables. Standard deviations and two-sided unpaired t-tests were applied for continuous variables. Stepwise logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent factors of postoperative seizures and unfavorable outcomes.

Results

The incidence of seizures after CSDH surgery was 4.2% in this study. There was no significant difference in recurrence rate between seizure and non-seizure patients (p = 0.948), and the outcome of seizure patients was significantly poor (p < 0.001). There are more postoperative complications in seizure patients (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the independent risk factors for postoperative seizures included drinking history (p = 0.031), cardiac disease (p = 0.037), brain infarction (p = 0.001) and trabecular hematoma (p < 0.001). The use of urokinase is a protective factor for postoperative seizures (p = 0.028). Hypertension is an independent risk factor for unfavorable outcome in seizure patients (p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Seizures after CSDH surgery were associated with postoperative complications, higher mortality and poorer clinical outcomes at follow-up. We believe that alcohol consumption, cardiac disease, brain infarction and trabecular hematoma are independent risk factors for seizures. The use of urokinase is a protective factor against seizures. Patients with postoperative seizures need more stringent management of their blood pressure. A prospective randomized study is necessary to determine which subgroups of CSDH patients would benefit from antiepileptic drugs prophylaxis.

A Radiological Assessment of Chronic Subdural Hematomas

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

Burr Hole Surgery for Drainage of Chronic and Subacute Subdural Hematomas: Low Recurrence Rate in a Single Surgeon Cohort

Background: A complication after surgical intervention for chronic and subacute subdural hematoma drainage is the recurrence of hematoma, often requiring repeat surgical management. Recurrence rates varied widely across the published series, which may partially be due to different technical strategies used by the surgeons involved in the study. We decided to review our patients with chronic and subacute subdural hematomas that were surgically managed with a burr hole procedure by a single surgeon to compare recurrence rates with the evidence available.

Methods: A retrospective review of the medical records was performed on the patients who underwent burr hole surgical intervention to drain a chronic or subacute subdural hematoma between April 1995 and March 2020. All patients were under the care of a single surgeon at an academic institution. Variables analyzed included age, sex, laterality of the hematoma, and recurrence.

Results: During the selected timeframe, 610 cases were identified. There were 35 cases of recurrence of the hematoma. The recurrence rate after burr hole drainage was 5.73%.

Conclusion: Surgical drainage of chronic and subacute subdural hematoma via burr hole using consistent stepwise management is associated with a relatively low recurrence rate in our single surgeon patient cohort.

Association between cranial asymmetry severity and chronic subdural hematoma laterality

Objectives:

To analyze the association between cranial asymmetry severity and chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) laterality.

Methods:

We retrospectively assessed 120 patients with surgically treated unilateral CSDH from January 2009 to December 2018. Preoperative computed tomography images were used to determine occipital vault angles, bilateral cranium areas, and cranial index of symmetry (CIS) ratios.

Results:

The male sex (70%) was the predominant factor promoting CSDH pathogenesis. In the overall study population (mean age, 71.3 years; left-sided CSDH, 58/120 [48%] patients; right-sided CSDH due to right-sided flat cranium, 38 patients; left-sided CSDH due to right-sided flat cranium, 37 patients). Flat cranial asymmetry was nonsignificantly associated with CSDH laterality (p- value=.689). However, most CSDH patients (86.7% of 120 patients) presented dominant-sided nonoverlapping areas on the left side. Thirteen (81.3%) patients presenting right-dominant nonoverlapping areas had right-sided CSDH, and 55 (52.9%) patients had left-dominant nonoverlapping area had left-sided CSDH (p- value=0.01). The CIS ratio was significantly higher in patients with right-dominant nonoverlapping areas than in those with left-dominant nonoverlapping areas (97.2% vs 95.9%, p- value<0.0001).

Conclusion:

Left-sided hematoma predominance is not associated with a flat cranium and laterality of unilateral CSDH. Moreover, more asymmetric crania with lower CIS ratios may predict left-sided CSDHs, whereas the right-sided CSDHs may be more common in symmetric crania with higher CIS ratios. The CSDH laterality is potentially attributable to cranial asymmetry severity.

Outcomes of craniotomies for chronic subdural hematoma in Sierra Leone

INTRODUCTION

chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is not uncommon in sub-Saharan Africa and has a striking morbidity and mortality if not managed adequately. With the limited number of neurosurgeons in resource poor countries, general surgeons should be trained in the skills of craniotomy and burr-hole craniostomy.

METHODS

we conducted a retrospective review of all medical records of patients with cSDH, who underwent flap craniotomy at the Choithrams Memorial Hospital, Sierra Leone, between January 2016 and March 2018. The case notes, operative records and computerized axial tomography (CT) scans were reviewed and all pertinent data extracted. All patients were jointly managed post operatively by medical (neurological) and surgical teams in an intensive care unit.

RESULTS

a total of 23 patients had surgical drainage of the chronic subdural hematoma. The mean age of the patients was 65.8 years (ranging from 54-78) with a male: female ratio of 3: 2: 1. The main predisposing risk factors were head trauma (60.9%) and antiplatelet medications (21.7%). Hypertension was the most common comorbidity, followed by diabetes mellitus. Ten (62.5%) out of sixteen patients referred for Head CT-scan by the primary physicians, had an initial missed clinical diagnosis until computerized tomography (CT) scan confirmation report of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) was obtained. Flap craniotomy under general anesthesia with a subdural drainage left in situ (100%) was done for all patients. Mean duration of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission was 10.6 days (range 6-16 days). Twenty-one (91.3%) patients made a full recovery. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

flap craniotomy for cSDH was safely performed by a traumatologist/general surgeon in a developing country where there is no neuro-surgical service. The outcome of the patients was favorable as there was co-management with the surgical and medical team.

Chronic Subdural Hematoma (cSDH): A review of the current state of the art

Introduction

Incidence of Chronic Subdural Hematoma (cSDH) is rising worldwide, partly due to an aging population, but also due to increased use of antithrombotic medication. Many recent studies have emerged to address current cSDH management strategies.

Research question

What is the state of the art of cSDH management.

Material and methods

Review.

Results

Head trauma, antithrombotic use and craniocerebral disproportion increase the risk of cSDH development. Most patients present with disorientation, GCS 13–15, and symptoms arising from cortical irritation and increased intracranial pressure. cSDH occurs bilaterally in 9–22%. CT allows assessment of cerebral compression (herniation, hematoma thickness, ventricle collapse, midline shift), hematoma age and presence of membranes, factors that ultimately determine treatment urgency and surgical approach. Recurrence remains the principle complication (9–33%), occurring more commonly with older age and bilateral cSDHs.

Discussion and conclusion

While incompletely understood, it is generally believed that injury in the dural cell layer results in bleeding from bridging veins, resulting in a hematoma formation, with or without a preceding hygroma, in a potential space approximating the junction between the dura and arachnoid. Neovascularization and leaking from the outer membrane are thought to propagate this process. Evidence that MMA embolization may reduce recurrence rates is a potentially exciting new treatment option, but also supports the theory that the MMA is implicated in the cSDH pathophysiology. The use of steroids remains a controversial topic without clear treatment guidelines. cSDH represents a common neurosurgical problem with burr-hole treatment remaining the gold standard, often in conjunction with subgaleal drains. MMA embolization to stop recurrence may represent an important evolution in understanding the pathophysiology of cSDH and improving treatment.

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Incidence of cSDH is rising, partly due to the aging population and increased antithrombotic use.

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cSDH occurs bilaterally in 9–22% of cases.

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Recurrence remains the principle complication and has been estimated at 9–33%.

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Risk factors for recurrence include old age and bilateral cSDHs.

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MMA embolization may reduce recurrence, but its efficacy and target population remain unclear.

Radiological prognostic factors of chronic subdural hematoma recurrence: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is associated with high recurrence rates. Radiographic prognostic factors may identify patients who are prone for recurrence and who might benefit further optimization of therapy. In this meta-analysis, we systematically evaluated pre-operative radiological prognostic factors of recurrence after surgery.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched until September 2020 for relevant publications. Studies reporting on CSDH recurrence in symptomatic CSDH patients with only surgical treatment were included. Random or fixed effects meta-analysis was used depending on statistical heterogeneity.

Results

Twenty-two studies were identified with a total of 5566 patients (mean age 69 years) with recurrence occurring in 801 patients (14.4%). Hyperdense components (hyperdense homogeneous and mixed density) were the strongest prognostic factor of recurrence (pooled RR 2.83, 95% CI 1.69–4.73). Laminar and separated architecture types also revealed higher recurrence rates (RR 1.37, 95% CI 1.04–1.80 and RR 1.76 95% CI 1.38–2.16, respectively). Hematoma thickness and midline shift above predefined cut-off values (10 mm and 20 mm) were associated with an increased recurrence rate (RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.45–2.21 and RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.11–1.73, respectively). Bilateral CSDH was also associated with an increased recurrence risk (RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.98–1.84).

Limitations

Limitations were no adjustments for confounders and variable data heterogeneity. Clinical factors could also be predictive of recurrence but are beyond the scope of this study.

Conclusions

Hyperdense hematoma components were the strongest prognostic factor of recurrence after surgery. Awareness of these findings allows for individual risk assessment and might prompt clinicians to tailor treatment measures.

Brainstem Bleed after Chronic Subdural Hematoma Drainage

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most frequent benign neurosurgical pathologies. Burr hole drainage is known to be safe, with low-morbidity and low-mortality rates. However, postoperative complications have been reported. We report the case of a 40-year-old lady who suffered a fatal brain stem hemorrhage after burr hole drainage for unilateral chronic SDH. Rapid decompression or sudden increase in cerebral blood flow were the probable factors for her brainstem bleed. Therefore, a slow rate of evacuation of CSDHs and maintenance of a correct blood pressure perioperatively are recommended to prevent serious complications.

Role of prophylactic antiepileptic drugs in chronic subdural hematoma-a systematic review and meta-analysis

Chronic subdural hematoma is a common neurosurgical pathology, which is more commonly seen in the elderly age group. Few patients with chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) can have seizures-either before or after surgical intervention. Reported incidence of seizures varies from 0.7-18.5% in patients with cSDH. Many factors which have been proposed to increase the risk of seizures in these patients include the presence of encapsulated membranes, occult cortical injury, mass effect, or an acute hemorrhage. The role of prophylactic antiepileptic drugs is not very clear in cSDH. We reviewed the currently available evidence for the use of prophylactic antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in patients with cSDH. We included 13 studies in the systematic review and 6 studies compared the incidence of seizures in patients who received antiepileptic drugs with those who did not. Our review did not find any significant reduction in the incidence of seizures in patients with cSDH following administration of antiepileptic drugs.

Outcomes of chronic subdural hematoma in patients with liver cirrhosis

OBJECTIVE: Burr hole craniostomy is an effective and simple procedure for treating chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). However, the surgical outcomes and recurrence of CSDH in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) remain unknown. METHODS: A nationwide population-based cohort study was retrospectively conducted using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The study included 29,163 patients who underwent first-time craniostomy for CSDH removal between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2013. In total, 1223 patients with LC and 2446 matched non-LC control patients were eligible for analysis. All-cause mortality, surgical complications, repeat craniostomy, extended craniotomy, and long-term medical costs were analyzed. RESULTS: The in-hospital mortality rate (8.7% vs 3.1% for patients with LC and non-LC patients, respectively), frequency of hospital admission, length of ICU stay, number of blood transfusions, and medical expenditures of patients with LC who underwent craniostomy for CSDH were considerably higher than those of non-LC control patients. Patients with LC tended to require an extended craniotomy to remove subdural hematomas in the hospital or during long-term follow-up. The surgical outcome worsened with an increase in the severity of LC. CONCLUSIONS: Even for simple procedures following minor head trauma, LC remains a serious comorbidity with a poor prognosis.

Double-crescent sign as a predictor of chronic subdural hematoma recurrence following burr-hole surgery

OBJECTIVE

Subdural hygroma has been reported as a causative factor in the development of a chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) following a head trauma and/or neurosurgical procedure. In some CSDH cases, the presence of a 2-layered space delineated by the same or similar density of CSF surrounded by a superficial, residual hematoma is seen on CT imaging after evacuation of the hematoma. The aims of the present study were to test the hypothesis that the double-crescent sign (DCS), a unique imaging finding described here, is associated with the postoperative recurrence of CSDH, and to investigate other factors that are related to CSDH recurrence.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed data from 278 consecutive patients who underwent single burr-hole surgery for CSDH between April 2012 and March 2017. The DCS was defined as a postoperative CT finding, characterized by the following 2 layers: a superficial layer demonstrating residual hematoma after evacuation of the CSDH, and a deep layer between the brain's surface and the residual hematoma, depicted as a low-density space. Correlation of the recurrence of CSDH with the DCS was evaluated by multivariate logistic regression modeling. The authors also investigated other classic predictive factors including age, sex, past history of head injury, hematoma laterality, anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy administration, preoperative hematoma volume, postoperative residual hematoma volume, and postoperative brain reexpansion rate.

RESULTS

A total of 277 patients (320 hemispheres) were reviewed. Fifty (18.1%) of the 277 patients experienced recurrence of CSDH within 3 months of surgery. CSDH recurred within 3 months of surgery in 32 of the 104 hemispheres with a positive DCS. Multivariate logistic analyses revealed that the presence of the DCS (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.72-6.57, p < 0.001), large postoperative residual hematoma volume (OR 2.88, 95% CI 1.24-6.71, p = 0.014), anticoagulant therapy (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.02-9.01, p = 0.046), and bilateral hematoma (OR 3.57, 95% CI 1.79-7.13, p < 0.001) were significant, independent predictors of CSDH recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the authors report that detection of the DCS within 7 days of surgery is an independent predictive factor for CSDH recurrence. They therefore advocate that clinicians should carefully monitor patients for postoperative DCS and subsequent CSDH recurrence.

Risk of Recurrent Chronic Subdural Hematoma Associated with Early Warfarin Resumption: A Matched Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Studies on resuming anticoagulation after burr-hole drainage for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) are limited. To evaluate the safety for early warfarin resumption after burr-hole drainage, we conducted a retrospective matched cohort study.

METHODS

Between January 2008 and April 2015, 36 patients with warfarin-related unilateral CSDH and 151 patients with ordinary unilateral CSDH were enrolled in this study. Patients taking warfarin were managed homogeneously according to the study protocol, and the usual dosage of warfarin was resumed within 2 or 3 days of burr-hole drainage to reach a target international normalized ratio (INR) of 2.1. The primary outcome, defined as recurrent CSDH requiring repeated burr-hole drainage within 3 months of the initial surgery, was compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The primary outcome was observed in 4 (11%) of the 36 patients taking warfarin and in 18 (12%) of the 151 ordinary patients. After propensity score matching, the primary outcome was observed in 3 of 33 patients (9%) in the matched warfarin cohort and 11 of 74 patients (15%) in the matched ordinary cohort. When the results were analyzed using the generalized estimating equation, no significant difference was observed in the rate of recurrent CSDH between the 2 groups (P = 0.411). In addition, we found that recurrent CSDH was not related to postoperative international normalized ratio levels (P = 0.332).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no definitive association between postoperative early warfarin resumption and the recurrence rate of CSDH. Patients with warfarin-related CSDH and a strong indication for anticoagulation can be managed by resuming warfarin within 3 days of burr-hole drainage.

Burr-Hole Craniostomy for Chronic Subdural Hematomas by General Surgeons in Rural Kenya

INTRODUCTION

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a common condition that causes significant morbidity and mortality. In rural sub-Saharan Africa, there are very few neurosurgeons. Yet, cSDH is treatable by relatively simple surgical intervention with potential for rapid clinical improvement.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients with cSDH who underwent burr-hole trephination at Tenwek Hospital, Kenya, between July 2014 and July 2016. We extracted and compared the clinical presentation, risk factors, operative details, and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 119 patients were identified with a mean age of 61.3 years. The majority were men (80%). The main predisposing factors were trauma (54.6%) and alcohol intake (34.4%). Patients were generally managed with two burr-holes, irrigation, and a subdural drain, remaining for a median of 2 days. Operations were assisted by general surgery residents under direct supervision of senior residents (46), general surgeons (65), and neurosurgeons (8). Complications included recurrence (5.2%), subdural empyema (2.5%), postoperative seizures (3.4%), and mortality (6.7%). Improvement of symptoms was noted in 91% of all patients.

CONCLUSION

Operative management of cSDH can be safely performed in rural facilities by general surgeons familiar with the procedure and with the institutional resources. The majority of patients had satisfactory outcomes.

Do antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs modify outcome of patients treated for chronic subdural hematoma? Still a controversial issue

BACKGROUND

Anticoagulants(ACs) and antiplatelet aggregation agents(AAAs) seem to be correlated to a higher incidence of chronic subdural hematoma(CSDH) but whether or not they contribute to its recurrence is debated. Few data are available on clinical outcomes and indications for the management of this therapy are not so well defined. We investigated the role of ACs and AAAs in modifying patients clinical outcomes treated for CSDH, especially for re-bleedings.

METHODS

This retrospective study, enrolled patients treated for CSDH. Patients characteristics were recorded including drugs used (antiplatelet/anticoagulant) and clinical conditions (Modified Rankin Scale-mRS) upon admission. Patients underwent surgery(burrhole vs minicraniectomy) with subdural drainage positioning. Clinical/radiological follow-ups were performed at one and six months. Chi square/Fisher exact test were used to compare variables and stepwise backward logistic regression analysis was used for defining their impact on complications, risk of re-bleeding and reoperation.

RESULTS

230 patients (45 on ACs, 76 on AAAs and 9 on both)were enrolled. Higher mRS scores were significantly associated with a higher risk of general complications (OR = 3.78, CI 95% 1.66- 8.62, p=0.002), higher risk of rebleeding (OR =15.82, CI 95% 4.33-57.90, p <0.001) and re- operation (OR=11.39, CI 95% 3.35-37.56, p<0.0001). No statistically significant association was found between AAAs or ACs and complications or re- bleedings or risk of reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

AAAs and ACs alone do not seem to worsen the clinical outcome or increase re- bleedings. mRS may be a predicting factor, since patients with higher scores showed a worse outcome and an increased risk of re-bleeding, general complications and reoperation.

Present epidemiology of chronic subdural hematoma in Japan: analysis of 63,358 cases recorded in a national administrative database

OBJECTIVE

Aging of the population may lead to epidemiological changes with respect to chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). The objectives of this study were to elucidate the current epidemiology and changing trends of CSDH in Japan. The authors analyzed patient information based on reports using a Japanese administrative database associated with the diagnosis procedure combination (DPC) system.

METHODS

This study included patients with newly diagnosed CSDH who were treated in hospitals participating in the DPC system. The authors collected data from the administrative database on the following clinical and demographic characteristics: patient age, sex, and level of consciousness on admission; treatment procedure; and outcome at discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 63,358 patients with newly diagnosed CSDH and treated in 1750 DPC participation hospitals were included in this study. Analysis according to patient age showed that the most common age range for these patients was the 9th decade of life (in their 80s). More than half of patients 70 years old or older presented with some kind of disturbance of consciousness. Functional outcomes at discharge were good in 71.6% (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score 0–2) of cases and poor in 28.4% (mRS score 3–6). The percentage of poor outcomes tended to be higher in elderly patients. Approximately 40% of patients 90 years old or older could not be discharged to home. The overall recurrence rate for CSDH was 13.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a chronological change in the age distribution of CSDH among Japanese patients, which may be affecting the prognosis of this condition. In the aging population of contemporary Japan, patients in their 80s were affected more often than patients in other age categories, and approximately 30% of patients with CSDH required some help at discharge. CSDH thus may no longer have as good a prognosis as had been thought.

The role of subgaleal suction drain placement in chronic subdural hematoma evacuation

Introduction:

There is lack of uniformity about the preferred surgical treatment, role of drain, and type of drain among various surgeons in chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). The present study is aimed to evaluate role of subgaleal drain.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective study of 260 patients of CSDH treated surgically. Burr-hole irrigation with and without suction drain was done in 140 and 120 patients, respectively. Out of 120 patients without suction drain 60 each were managed by single and two burr holes. Pre- and postoperative GCS was recorded. Recurrent hematomas, CSDH secondary to tumor, due to intracranial hypotension, coagulopathy, children below 18 years, and patients treated by twist drill craniostomy or craniotomy were excluded. Subgaleal closed-system drainage with low negative pressure was used.

Results:

Age of the patients ranged from 18 to 75 years with mean age of 57 years. There were 9, 47, 204 patients in GCS of 3-8, 9-12, and 13-15, respectively. Both the groups were comparable in terms of age, etiology, gender, and neurological status. There was no difference in the mortality in both the group. The recurrence and postoperative pneumocephalus was significantly less in suction drain group as compared to without drain group. There was no infection or any other complication related to suction drainage.

Conclusion:

Subgaleal closed suction drainage was safe, simple, and effective in the management of CSDH. Recurrence rate was low in the suction drain group.

Bilateral Chronic Subdural Hematoma is Associated with Rapid Progression and Poor Clinical Outcome

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) has been recognized as a benign disease, but its clinical outcome is not well documented. This study aims to expand the knowledge base regarding the outcome of CSDH. We retrospectively reviewed clinical characteristics of CSDH operated in the Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital between June 2005 and June 2012. Variants included age at onset, sex, laterality, presence of headache, consciousness level, and risk factors for hemorrhage such as malignancy or intake of anticoagulants. A total of 368 cases were analyzed. Six patients (1.4%) had a poor outcome, defined as any morbidity or mortality at 7 days postoperatively. Bilateral hematoma was significantly associated with a poor outcome (p = 0.041). Warfarin use and malignancy, albeit statistically not significant, were more frequently observed in patients with a poor outcome. Bilateral CSDH was observed in 53 patients (14.4%). Age at onset, sex, history of malignancy, anticoagulant use, and antiplatelet use did not differ between bilateral and unilateral CSDH. Recurrence rate was not different between bilateral and unilateral CSDH (14.2% vs. 11.3%), but poor outcome as a result of brain herniation was significantly higher in bilateral than in unilateral hematomas (5.7% vs. 0.3%, p = 0.01). Bilateral CSDH was associated with rapid progression and showed worse outcome as a result of brain herniation in comparison with unilateral CSDH. Urgent trephination surgery for decompression of hematoma pressure may be recommended for bilateral CSDH.

Anticoagulation Therapy in Traumatic Brain Injury

BACKGROUND

Optimal anticoagulation therapy (AT) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a challenging task and proper management is strongly correlated with clinical outcomes. Only limited data are available on AT after TBI and practical decision making is based on the opinion of experts. This review sought to critically assess different therapeutic options using AT and antiplatelet agents in the perioperative period after TBI.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to summarize relevant data on AT in patients with TBI.

RESULTS

Patients with preinjury AT with TBI require emergent neurosurgical treatment and they are also at high risk of developing thromboembolic complications or hematoma expansion. New oral anticoagulants offer a lower incidence of intracranial hemorrhage compared with warfarin. The rate of intracranial hemorrhage during new oral anticoagulants or heparin therapy is significantly lower than that with vitamin K antagonists.

Chronic subdural hematoma

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical conditions. There is lack of uniformity in the treatment of CSDH amongst surgeons in terms of various treatment strategies. Clinical presentation may vary from no symptoms to unconsciousness. CSDH is usually diagnosed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is more sensitive in the diagnosis of bilateral isodense CSDH, multiple loculations, intrahematoma membranes, fresh bleeding, hemolysis, and the size of capsule. Contrast-enhanced CT or MRI could detect associated primary or metastatic dural diseases. Although definite history of trauma could be obtained in a majority of cases, some cases may be secondary to coagulation defect, intracranial hypotension, use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, etc., Recurrent bleeding, increased exudates from outer membrane, and cerebrospinal fluid entrapment have been implicated in the enlargement of CSDH. Burr-hole evacuation is the treatment of choice for an uncomplicated CSDH. Most of the recent trials favor the use of drain to reduce recurrence rate. Craniotomy and twist drill craniostomy also play a role in the management. Dural biopsy should be taken, especially in recurrence and thick outer membrane. Nonsurgical management is reserved for asymptomatic or high operative risk patients. The steroids and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors may also play a role in the management. Single management strategy is not appropriate for all the cases of CSDH. Better understanding of the nature of the pathology, rational selection of an ideal treatment strategy for an individual patient, and identification of the merits and limitations of different surgical techniques could help in improving the prognosis.

Outcomes of chronic subdural hematoma drainage in nonagenarians and centenarians: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hemorrhage (SDH) or hematoma is a condition that affects elderly individuals. With advances in medical care, the number of nonagenarians and centenarians will increase. However, surgical treatments in this age group are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Because no data are available on the rates of survival among elderly patients with chronic SDHs who undergo surgical drainage or receive only conservative care, the goal of this study was to determine survival rates in patients 90 years of age or older with symptomatic chronic SDHs.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of patient data that were collected at 3 hospitals over a 13-year period (from January 2001 to June 2013). The data from patients 90 years or older with symptomatic chronic SDHs and who were offered surgical treatment were included in the analysis. Patients who underwent surgical treatment were included in the surgical group and patients who declined an operation were included in the conservative care group. The patients' Charlson Comorbidity Index score, Karnofsky Performance Scale score, dates of death, presenting symptoms, Glasgow Coma Scale score, length of stay in the hospital, discharge location, side of the SDH, and neurological improvements at 30-day and 6-month follow-ups were recorded. Data were statistically analyzed with Fisher exact test, Kaplan-Meier curves, and logistic regression.

RESULTS

In total, 101 patients met the inclusion criteria of this study; 70 of these patients underwent surgical drainage, and 31 received conservative care. Patients in the surgical group had statistically significantly (p < 0.001) higher survival at both the 30-day and 6-month follow-ups, with 92.9% and 81.4% of the patients in this group surviving for at least 30 days and 6 months, respectively, versus 58.1% and 41.9%, respectively, in the conservative care group. Moreover, the mean overall length of survival of 34.4 ± 28.7 months was longer in the surgical group than it was in the conservative care group (11.3 ± 16.6 months). Overall, 95.7% of patients in the surgical group exhibited an improvement in neurological status after the SDH drainage, whereas none of the patients in the conservative care group showed any neurological improvement during their hospital stay. The surgical complication rate was 11.4%, and the overall rate of chronic SDH recurrence after surgery was 12.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical drainage of chronic SDHs in nonagenarians and centenarians is associated with lower incidence of inpatient death and higher 30-day and 6-month survival rates.

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.

Neurological and functional outcomes of subdural hematoma evacuation in patients over 70 years of age

BACKGROUND

Subdural hematoma (SDH) is a common disease entity treated by neurosurgical intervention. Although the incidence increases in the elderly population, there is a paucity of studies examining their surgical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the neurological and functional outcomes of patients over 70 years of age undergoing surgical decompression for subdural hematoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data on 45 patients above 70 years who underwent craniotomy or burr holes for acute, chronic or mixed subdural hematomas. We analyzed both neurological and functional status before and after surgery.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients 70 years of age or older were treated in our department during the study period. There was a significant improvement in the neurological status of patients from admission to follow up as assessed using the Markwalder grading scale (1.98 vs. 1.39; P =0.005), yet no improvement in functional outcome was observed as assessed by Glasgow Outcome Score. Forty-one patients were admitted from home, however only 20 patients (44%) were discharged home, 16 (36%) discharged to nursing home or rehab, 6 (13%) to hospice and 3 (7%) died in the postoperative period. Neurological function improved in patients who were older, had a worse pre-operative neurological status, were on anticoagulation and had chronic or mixed acute and chronic hematoma. However, no improvement in functional status was observed.

CONCLUSION

Surgical management of SDH in patients over 70 years of age provides significant improvement in neurological status, but does not change functional status.

Evolving management of symptomatic chronic subdural hematoma: experience of a single institution and review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) has an increasing incidence and results in high morbidity and mortality. We review here the 10-year experience of a single institution and the literature regarding the treatment and major associations of cSDH.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all cSDHs surgically treated from 2000 to 2010 in the New York Harbor Health Care System to evaluate the duration from admission to treatment, type of treatment, length of stay (LOS) in critical care, LOS in the hospital, and recurrence. The literature was reviewed with regards to incidence, associations, and treatment of cSDH.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2008, 44 patients were treated with burr holes (BHs). From 2008 to 2010, 29 patients were treated with twist-drill evacuation (subdural evacuating port system, SEPS). Four patients from each group were readmitted for reoperation (9% vs 14%; P = 0.53). The average time to intervention for SEPS (11.2 ± 15.3 hours) was faster than for BHs (40.3 ± 69.1 hours) (P = 0.02). The total hospital LOS was shorter for SEPS (9.3 ± 6.8 days) versus BHs (13.4 ± 10.2 days) (P = 0.04); both were significantly longer than for a brain tumor patient undergoing craniotomy (7.0 ± 0.5 days, n = 94, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Despite decreasing LOSs as treatment for cSDH evolved from BHs to SEPS, the LOS for a cSDH is still longer than that of a patient undergoing craniotomy for brain tumor. We noted 11% recurrence in our series of patients, which included individuals who recurred as late as 3 years after initial diagnosis.

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.