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

Quantitative Assessment of Brain Expansion After Evacuation of Chronic Subdural Hematoma as a Predictor of Recurrence

BACKGROUND

A lack of brain expansion is considered a risk factor for recurrence after evacuation of a chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). To the best of our knowledge, no studies have reported on objective measurement of brain expansion after evacuation of a CSDH.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients undergoing 2 burr hole evacuation of a CSDH. We measured the depth of the brain surface from the frontal burr hole dural opening after hematoma evacuation using a specially devised measuring tool. Other predictors analyzed for recurrence of hematoma were age, gender, a history of hypertension, the use of anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet agents, Glasgow coma scale score at presentation, unilateral or bilateral hematoma, computed tomography appearance, and hematoma thickness.

RESULTS

Among 88 patients who underwent hematoma evacuation, 3 (3.4%) underwent surgery for recurrence. The significant factors associated with recurrence were the presence of bilateral hematoma (P = 0.001), hematoma width >2.3 cm (P = 0.04), gradation type of hematoma on the computed tomography scan (P = 0.03), and the depth of the brain after hematoma evacuation (P = 0.02). The brain expanded less in those with recurrence, with a mean depth of the brain of 18 ± 6 mm versus 7.27 ± 7.8 mm in those without recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Evacuation of a CSDH through 2 burr holes, along with copious irrigation and bed rest for 3 days, resulted in a very low recurrence rate without the use of a drain. A lack of brain expansion might be a predictor of recurrence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to quantitatively measure the depth of the brain at surgery in patients undergoing surgery for CSDH.

Factors for predicting recurrence after burr hole drainage for chronic subdural hematoma: a retrospective study

Chronic subdural hematoma (SDH) is a common disease in the neurosurgical field, and hematoma drainage through burr hole trephination has been widely considered the optimal treatment for SDH. Despite numerous investigations aimed at predicting recurrence rates and associated factors, studies have demonstrated inconsistent results. In this study, we aimed to comprehensively determine the predictive factors of chronic SDH recurrence in surgically treated patients. We retrospectively evaluated 578 consecutive patients who underwent single burr hole surgery for chronic SDH at our institute between January 2008 and December 2021. Various clinical and radiological factors in patients with and without recurrence were compared using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A total of 438 patients (531 hemispheres) were analyzed. Fifty-four (10.17%) of the 531 hemispheres had recurrence of chronic SDH within 6 months. Male sex (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.48; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.42-8.49), bilateral hematomas (aOR = 2.14; 95% CI, 1.05-4.35), laminar hematoma type (aOR = 2.87; 95% CI, 1.23-6.71), > 30-cm3 volume of postoperative residual hematoma (aOR = 2.99; 95% CI, 1.01-8.83), and preoperative blood glucose level of ≥ 150 mg/dL (aOR = 2.11; 95% CI, 1.10-4.05) were identified as independent factors associated with recurrence in multivariate logistic regression analysis. The present study revealed that male patients and those who had bilateral hematomas, laminar hematoma type, a large volume of hematoma after surgery, and a high preoperative blood glucose level had a higher probability of experiencing recurrent chronic SDH. We recommend close monitoring of patients 6 months postoperatively to detect subsequent chronic SDH recurrence.

Modified Puerto Rico Recurrence Scale for chronic subdural hematomas: augmenting the grading scale with postoperative pneumocephalus volume

BACKGROUND

Chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) are common in the elderly, with a relatively high rate of recurrence after initial surgical intervention. Our research team previously created a predictive grading system, the Puerto Rico Recurrence Scale (PRRS), to identify patients at high risk of CSDH recurrence. In this study, we introduce a modification of the (mPRRS) that includes pneumocephalus volume, which has been independently associated with recurrence.

METHODS

A single-center Puerto Rican population-based retrospective study was performed to analyze data for patients treated for CSDH at 1 institution between July 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to create a grading scale predictive of recurrence. Retrospective validation was conducted for the cohort.

RESULTS

Of 108 patients included in the study, 42 had recurrence, and 66 had nonrecurrence. Postoperative subdural space, postoperative midline shift, and pneumocephalus volume were all higher with recurrence (P = 0.002, P = 0.009, and P < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis was used to create a 6-point grading scale comprising 3 variables (pneumocephalus volume [< 10, 10-20, 21-30, and > 30 cm3], postoperative midline shift [< 0.4, 0.41-1.0, and > 1.0 cm], and laterality [unilateral and bilateral]). Recurrence rates progressively increased in low-risk to high-risk groups (2/18 [11%] vs 21/34 [62%]; P < 0.003).

CONCLUSION

The mPRRS incorporating pneumocephalus measurement improves CSDH recurrence prediction. The mPRRS indicated that patients with higher scores have a greater risk of recurrence and emphasized the importance of measuring postoperative variables for prediction. The mPRRS grading scale for CSDHs may be applicable not only to the Puerto Rican population but also to the general population.

Surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma by twist drill craniotomy: A 9-year, single-center experience of 219 cases

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the safety and efficiency of twist drill craniotomy (TDC) for surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) based on a single-center experience of 219 cases performed over nine years.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of CSDH patients who underwent TDC treatment in our hospital between January 2013 and December 2021. Clinical and radiological characteristics, as well as surgical outcomes of the included patients, were reviewed and analyzed. Factors that may affect hematoma recurrence and outcomes were also investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 219 patients (186 males and 33 females) were included. Eighteen (8.2%) patients experienced postoperative complications. The in-hospital mortality and recurrence rates in our series were 0.5% (1/219) and 4.1% (9/217), respectively. 91.7% (199/217) of patients achieved favorable outcomes six months after the operation. Duration of drainage catheter (odds ratio [OR] 0.135, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.017-1.099; P = 0.030) was the only factor significantly related to the recurrence of CSDH. Moreover, brain infarction (OR 5.175, 95% CI 1.417-18.896; P = 0.013), Alzheimer's disease (OR 20.515, 95% CI 1.950-215.840; P = 0.012), and preoperative dysfunction of coagulation (OR 6.509, 95% CI 1.501-28.217; P = 0.012) were markedly associated with unfavorable functional outcomes.

CONCLUSION

TDC with irrigation and closed-system drainage is a minimally invasive, simple, safe, and effective surgical technique that can serve as the first-choice for the treatment of CSDH with a low recurrence rate.

Middle meningeal artery embolisation: The review of a new treatment for chronic subdural hematomas

Background

This is a literature review aiming to provide an update about the recent findings related to the efficacy of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) in the treatment of chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs), comparison with conventional therapy and deduction of the current recommendations and indications.

Methods

The literature is reviewed using a search through the PubMed index using keywords. Studies are then screened, skimmed, and thoroughly read. 32 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and are included in the study.

Results

Five indications for the application of MMA embolization (MMAE) are deducted from the literature. The usage as a preventive measure after surgical treatment of symptomatic cSDHs in patients with a high risk of recurrence and the usage as a standalone procedure has been the most common reasons for indication of this procedure. Rates of failures for the aforementioned indications have been 6.8% and 3.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

The safety of MMAE as a procedure is regarded as a general theme in the literature and can be considered for future applications. Usage of this procedure in clinical trials with more patient segregation and timeframe assessment relative to surgical intervention are recommendations of this literature review.

Predictors of recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma in a cohort study of patients presenting in a sub-Saharan African teaching hospital

Background

Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH) is a common neurological condition affecting the elderly with decreased quality of life. Recurrence leads to increase in number of hospital admissions and surgical interventions. Several factors contribute to recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma, and determination of these factors will help institute measures to reduce recurrence of CSDH, cost of care and improved quality of life. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of recurrence of chronic subdural haematoma in a cohort of patients presenting in a Sub-Saharan African Teaching Hospital.

Methods

A prospective hospital-based cohort study of 62 participants who presented with CSDH and underwent burr-hole and drainage at the Neuroscience unit of the Korle-bu Teaching Hospital. The primary outcome of this study was the recurrence of CSDH within 3 months after the surgery. Data was entered into Microsoft Excel 2016 and exported to International Business Machine (IBM) Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 for analysis. Predictors of recurrence of CSDH were determined using logistic regression with odds ratio calculated at the 95% confidence level and a p-value less than 0.05 accepted as statistically significant.

Results

There was a male preponderance of 45 (72.6%), over females of 17 (27.4%). The mean age was 63.1 ± 13.6 years. The recurrence rate of CSDH was 21.0% whilst the mortality rate was 4.8%. Facial palsy and dysphasia were associated with the recurrence of CSDH (p = 0.045, 0.029). Hypertension and bilaterality were associated with recurrence of CSDH from a univariate analysis (p = 0.039, OR = 4.865, CI = 0.975–24.285; p = 0.005, OR = 5.979, CI = 1.585–22.557). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, bilaterality was the only independent predictor of recurrence of CSDH (p = 0.030, AOR = 5.47, CI = 1.18–25.34).

Conclusions

Both hypertension and bilaterality showed statistically significant association with recurrence of CSDH. However, only bilaterality proved to be an independent predictor of recurrence of CSDH in patient who underwent burr-hole and drainage.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02857-1.

Puerto Rico Recurrence Scale: Predicting chronic subdural hematoma recurrence risk after initial surgical drainage

Background:

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) commonly affects older individuals and is associated with a relatively high rate of recurrence after surgery. Many studies have created grading systems to identify patients at high risk of CSDH recurrence after the initial surgery. However, no system has been adopted widely. The authors present the first CSDH grading system created from a population-based single-center data set.

Methods:

A single-center Puerto Rican population-based retrospective analysis was performed on consecutive patients treated for a CSDH at a designated institution from July 1, 2017 to December 31, 2019. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to create a CSDH recurrence grading scale. Retrospective validation was conducted on this sample population.

Results:

The study included 428 patients. Preoperative midline shift, postoperative midline shift, and size of postoperative subdural space differed between the recurrence and nonrecurrence groups (P = 0.03, 0.002, and 0.002, respectively). A multivariate analysis was used to create a 10-point grading scale comprising four independent variables. Recurrence rates progressively increased from the low-risk (0–3 points) to high-risk (8–10 points) groups (2.9% vs. 20.3%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

A 10-point grading scale for CSDH recurrence was developed with four components: preoperative midline shift (≤1 and >1 cm), laterality (bilateral, unilateral-right, and unilateral-left), size of postoperative subdural space (≤1.6 and >1.6 cm), and pneumocephalus (present or absent). Patients who scored higher on the scale had a higher risk of recurrence. This CSDH grading scale has implications for Puerto Rico and the general population as the elderly population increases worldwide.

Dehydration Status at Admission Predicts Recurrence in Patients with Traumatic Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Objective: There remains a significant risk of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) recurring after treatment. Patient-related predictors and surgical procedures have been investigated in many studies. In contrast, the literature remains scant on reports of the potential impact of dehydration on the admission of affected patients and on the CSDH recurrence rate. Methods: All consecutively admitted patients with CSDH and surgical treatment at the authors’ institution between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. Dehydration was assessed as a blood urea/creatinine (U/Cr) ratio > 80. The association between dehydration on admission and postoperative complication rates, in-hospital mortality, and recurrence of CSDH, with the need for additional surgical treatment, was further analyzed. Results: A total of 265 patients with CSDH requiring surgery were identified. In 32 patients (12%), further surgery was necessary due to the recurrence of CSDH. It was found that 9 of the 265 patients with CSDH (3%) suffered from dehydration at the time of admission. Multivariate analysis revealed diabetes mellitus (p = 0.02, OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2−6.5), a preoperative midline shift > 5 mm (p = 0.003, OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.5−7.5) and dehydration on admission (p = 0.002, OR 10.3, 95% CI 2.4−44.1) as significant and independent predictors for the development of CSDH recurrence that requires surgery. Conclusion: the present findings indicate that dehydration on admission appears to be an independent predictor for CSDH recurrence that requires surgery.

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.

Modified Computed Tomography Classification for Chronic Subdural Hematoma Features Good Interrater Agreement: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to establish whether our modified Nakaguchi computed tomography (CT) classification improves the interrater agreement of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) classification and prediction of CSDH recurrence relative to 2 other CT classifications.

METHODS

This retrospective study considered 277 consecutive patients with CSDH and 307 hematomas treated with burr-hole surgery between January 2009 and December 2018. Two neurosurgeons blinded to patients' clinical data classified the CT scans of patients with CSDH into 4 or 5 types according to the Nomura classification (high, iso, low, mixed, and layering), Nakaguchi classification (homogenous, laminar, separated, and trabecular), and our modified Nakaguchi classification (homogenous, gradation, laminar, separated, and trabecular). The κ statistic was used to evaluate the interrater agreement of the 3 CT classifications. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to calculate odds ratios for CSDH recurrence.

RESULTS

κ values of the modified, Nakaguchi, and Nomura classification were 0.78, 0.63, and 0.70, respectively. During the 3 months follow-up, the recurrence rate for CSDH was 11.4% (35/307 hematomas). Of the types defined by the modified classification, the gradation type was associated with the highest recurrence (mean recurrence rate, 15.9% ± 0.3%). Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that a gradation-type hematoma, as defined with the modified classification, was an independent risk factor associated with recurrence (odds ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-4.98; P = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

The modified classification was useful for preoperative CT classification of CSDH and the prediction of recurrence, with high agreement between raters.

An association of low high-density lipoprotein levels with recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma

BACKGROUND

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common illness in neurosurgical practice with a substantial recurrence rate. Previous studies found that serum lipids were associated with the risk of stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage. In the current study, we aimed to identify the relationship between serum lipids and CSDH recurrence.

METHODS

The medical records of 274 consecutive surgical patients with CSDH in our department were reviewed and analyzed. Patients were separated into recurrence and non-recurrence groups. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to identify serum lipids (triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL) and other potential predictors associated with CSDH recurrence, and the performance of predictors was assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

Of the 274 patients included in the study, 42 (15.3%) experienced at least 1 recurrence of CSDH. Univariate analysis showed that age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, anticoagulant use, triglycerides, HDL, and midline shift were all significantly associated with CSDH recurrence. Multivariable Cox regression analysis found that only age, diabetes mellitus, midline shift, and HDL level were independent risk factors for CSDH recurrence. A higher HDL level (HR = 0.929, 95% CI 0.905-0.953) was significantly associated with a lower risk of recurrence, and ROC curve analysis revealed that the optimal HDL cut-off value as a predictor was 37.45 mg/dl.

CONCLUSIONS

Low level of high-density lipoprotein is significantly associated with recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma.

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.

Thirty- and 90-Day Readmissions After Treatment of Traumatic Subdural Hematoma: National Trend Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Subdural hematoma (SDH), a form of traumatic brain injury, is a common disease that requires extensive patient management and resource utilization; however, there remains a paucity of national studies examining the likelihood of readmission in this patient population. The aim of this study is to investigate differences in 30- and 90-day readmissions for treatment of traumatic SDH using a nationwide readmission database.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmission Database years 2013-2015 were queried. Patients with a diagnosis of traumatic SDH and a primary procedure code for incision of cerebral meninges for drainage were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification coding system. Patients were grouped by no readmission (Non-R), readmission within 30 days (30-R), and readmission within 31-90 days (90-R).

RESULTS

We identified a total of 14,355 patients, with 3106 (21.6%) patients encountering a readmission (30-R: n = 2193 [15.3%]; 90-R: n = 913 [6.3%]; Non-R: n = 11,249). The most prevalent 30- and 90-day diagnoses seen among the readmitted cohorts were postoperative infection (30-R: 10.5%, 90-R: 13.0%) and epilepsy (30-R: 3.7%, 90-R: 1.1%). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, Medicare, Medicaid, hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, congestive heart failure, and coagulopathy were independently associated with 30-day readmission; Medicare and rheumatoid arthritis/collagen vascular disease were independently associated with 90-day readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we determine the relationship between readmission rates and complications associated with surgical intervention for traumatic subdural hematoma.

Predictors of acute intracranial hemorrhage and recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma following burr hole drainage

Background

To investigate predictors of postoperative acute intracranial hemorrhage (AIH) and recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) after burr hole drainage.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study of patients who underwent burr hole drainage for CSDH between January 2013 and March 2019.

Results

A total of 448 CSDH patients were enrolled in the study. CSDH recurrence occurred in 60 patients, with a recurrence rate of 13.4%. The mean time interval between initial burr hole drainage and recurrence was 40.8 ± 28.3 days. Postoperative AIH developed in 23 patients, with an incidence of 5.1%. The mean time interval between initial burr hole drainage and postoperative AIH was 4.7 ± 2.9 days. Bilateral hematoma, hyperdense hematoma and anticoagulant drug use were independent predictors of recurrence in the multiple logistic regression analyses. Preoperative headache was an independent risk factor of postoperative AIH in the multiple logistic regression analyses, however, intraoperative irrigation reduced the incidence of postoperative AIH.

Conclusions

This study found that bilateral hematoma, hyperdense hematoma and anticoagulant drug use were independently associated with CSDH recurrence. Clinical presentation of headache was the strongest predictor of postoperative AIH, and intraoperative irrigation decreased the incidence of postoperative AIH.

Prediction of postoperative recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma using quantitative volumetric analysis in conjunction with computed tomography texture analysis

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease in older individuals with a substantial rate of recurrence. The mechanism of CSDH recurrence remains unclear. This study aimed to detect imaging parameters that could indicate the risk for CSDH recurrence by using quantitative volumetric analysis and computed tomography (CT) texture analysis (CTTA). Clinical and imaging parameters were retrospectively investigated in 147 newly diagnosed CSDH lesions in 114 patients surgically treated at the Keio University Hospital during a 6-year period. For CT images, quantitative volumetric and texture analyses were performed. Hematoma volume, postoperative air volume, hematoma density, and texture parameters including kurtosis, skewness, and entropy were evaluated and compared with CSDH recurrence rate. Data were statistically evaluated, and a difference of p < 0.05 was considered significant. Reoperation for CSDH recurrence was required in 27 sides (18.4%) of 26 patients. Multivariate analysis showed that postoperative hematoma volume and postoperative hematoma density were independent risk factors for symptomatic CSDH recurrence that required reoperation. Postoperative hematoma volume, postoperative significant residual air, and postoperative hematoma density were also identified as independent risk factors for potential CSDH recurrence. Preoperative hematoma entropy was prone to be associated with both symptomatic and potential CSDH recurrence in univariate analysis, but not in multivariate analysis because of confounding factors. Quantitative volumetric analysis and CTTA could aid in distinguishing individuals at risk for CSDH recurrence.

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.

Factors predicting reoperation of chronic subdural hematoma following primary surgical evacuation

OBJECTIVEChronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is commonly encountered in neurosurgical practice. However, surgical evacuation remains complicated by a high rate of reoperation. The optimal surgical approach to reduce the reoperation rate has not been determined. In the current study, the authors evaluated the prognostic value of clinical and radiographic factors to predict reoperation in the context of CSDH.METHODSA retrospective review of 325 CSDH patients admitted to an academic medical center in the United States, between 2006 and 2016, was performed. Clinical and radiographic factors predictive of the need for CSDH reoperation were identified on univariable and multivariable analyses.RESULTSUnivariable analysis showed that warfarin use, clopidogrel use, mixed hypo- and isointensity on T1-weighted MRI, greater preoperative midline shift, larger hematoma/fluid residual on first postoperative day CT, lesser decrease in hematoma size after surgery, use of monitored anesthesia care (MAC), and lack of intraoperative irrigation correlated with a significantly higher rate of reoperation. Multivariable analysis, however, showed that only the presence of loculation, clopidogrel or warfarin use, and percent of hematoma change after surgery significantly predicted the need for reoperation. Our results showed that 0% (no reduction), 50%, and 100% hematoma maximum thickness change (complete resolution of hematoma after surgery) were associated with a 41%, 6%, and < 1% rate of reoperation, respectively. The use of drains, either large diameter or small caliber, did not have any effect on the likelihood of reoperation.CONCLUSIONSAmong many factors, clopidogrel or warfarin use, hematoma loculation on preoperative CT, and the amount of hematoma evacuation on the first postoperative CT were the strongest predictors of reoperation.

Intraoperative point-of-care assessment of an inflammatory biomarker in chronic subdural hematomas: Technical note

OBJECTIVE

Inflammatory processes have been associated with the development and recurrence of chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH). Elevated levels of presepsin, a truncated N-terminal fragment of soluble CD14, occur in various inflammatory conditions of bacterial and non-bacterial origin. Here we report on our initial experiences with the intraoperative point-of-care (POC) assessment of presepsin in patients treated for cSDH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The POC analyser Pathfast® was used in 21 patients treated for cSDH at our institution. Prior to surgery, levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cells (WBC) were assessed. After burr hole trephination and dura incision, samples of subdural fluid and whole blood were collected and immediately assessed with the POC analyser. Values of presepin were compared between samples of the subdural compartment and whole blood.

RESULTS

Presepsin levels were assessed within 13 min in all patients and no technical difficulties occurred. Compared to the reported normal range values of presepsin (55-184 pg/mL), mean levels of presepsin in samples of the subdural compartiment was increased more than 5-fold (821 ± 110.1 pg/mL). Furthermore, mean presepsin values in samples of the subdural compartiment were significantly higher than in samples of whole blood (154.8 ± 19.2 pg/mL; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

POC assessment of the inflammatory biomarker presepsin is feasible within minutes during surgical treatment of cSDH. Corresponding to previous studies, presepsin levels were highly elevated in the subdural fluid, indicating processes of inflammation. Whether results of intraoperative POC assessment of inflammatory biomarkers is associated with outcome parameters in patients treated for cSDH has to be addressed in further studies. In our view, there is a role for this promising technique in improving future treatment strategies in respective patients.

Postoperative pneumocephalus increases the recurrence rate of chronic subdural hematoma

OBJECTIVES

Pneumocephalus is a common operative complication of chronic subdural hematoma. This study is to analyze the relationship between postoperative pneumocephalus and the recurrence and surgical outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective case-cohort study, including a pneumocephalus group (n = 46) and a control group (n = 181). Their recurrence rates, CT attenuation values, hospital stay, healing time and the neurological status were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

The pneumocephalus group had a recurrence rate of 32.6%, significantly higher than the control (17.7%). In addition, the pneumocephalus group had a higher rate of postoperative epilepsy (21.7% vs 3.3%), longer hospital stay (11.5 ± 2.8 vs 7.8 ± 1.2 days), longer healing time (10.8 ± 5.4 vs 6.5 ± 2.3 months), and worse neurological scores than the control.

CONCLUSION

Pneumocephalus increases the recurrence rate of chronic subdural hematoma, and it not only prolongs the hospital stay and healing time, but also leads to deterioration of the neurological status.

Outcomes following surgery in subgroups of comatose and very elderly patients with chronic subdural hematoma

Increasing age and lower pre-operative Glasgow coma score (GCS) are associated with worse outcome after surgery for chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH). Only few studies have quantified outcomes specific to the very elderly or comatose patients. We aim to examine surgical outcomes in these patient groups. We analysed data from a prospective multicentre cohort study, assessing the risk of recurrence, death, and unfavourable functional outcome of very elderly (≥ 90 years) patients and comatose (pre-operative GCS ≤ 8) patients following surgical treatment of CSDH. Seven hundred eighty-five patients were included in the study. Thirty-two (4.1%) patients had pre-operative GCS ≤ 8 and 70 (8.9%) patients were aged ≥ 90 years. A higher proportion of comatose patients had an unfavourable functional outcome (38.7 vs 21.7%; p = 0.03), although similar proportion of comatose (64.5%) and non-comatose patients (61.8%) functionally improved after surgery (p = 0.96). Compared to patients aged < 90 years, a higher proportion of patients aged ≥ 90 years had unfavourable functional outcome (41.2 vs 20.5%; p < 0.01), although approximately half had functional improvement following surgery. Mortality risk was higher in both comatose (6.3 vs 1.9%; p = 0.05) and very elderly (8.8 vs 1.1%; p < 0.01) groups. There was a trend towards a higher recurrence risk in the comatose group (19.4 vs 9.5%; p = 0.07). Surgery can still provide considerable benefit to very elderly and comatose patients despite their higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Further research would be needed to better identify those most likely to benefit from surgery in these groups.

The number of burr holes and use of a drain do not interfere with surgical results of chronic subdural hematomas

Burr hole evacuation has been the most frequently-used procedure for the treatment of chronic subdural hematomas (CSDH).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether the use of a drain and/or the number of burr holes for treatment of CSDH modifies the rates of recurrence and complications.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 142 patients operated on because of CSDH, between 2006 and 2015, analyzing recurrence and complications of the use of one or two burr holes with or without the use of a drain.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients had bilateral CSDH (26%) and 105 (73.9%) patients had unilateral CSDH. Twenty-two (59.4%) patients were given a drain and 15 (40.6%) were not. A total number of recurrences occurred in 22 (15.5%) patients and the total number of complications was in six (4.2%) patients. Mean follow-up time was 7.67 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of burr holes and the use of the drain did not alter the rates of recurrence and complications in the treatment of CSDH.

Radiolological predictors of recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma

Objective:

Chronic subdural hematoma is one of the most common clinical entities encountered in daily neurosurgical practice. Considerable recurrence rates have been reported for chronic subdural hematoma following surgical evacuation. Many studies have suggested various radiological factors that may be associated with the recurrence of CSDH. However, the results are inconsistent. This study focuses on determining the radiological factors predictive of chronic subdural hematoma recurrence.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 113 patients diagnosed with chronic subdural hematoma who were surgically treated between August 2013 and December 2014 was performed. The radiological features were analyzed to clarify the correlation between these radiological factors and postoperative recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma.

Results:

Twenty patients (17.7%) experienced recurrence. Chronic subdural hematoma recurrence was found to be significantly associated (p<0.05) with preoperative hematoma thickness ≥ 20 mm. Midline shift, hematoma density and bilaterality were not significantly associated with recurrence. Post operative drainage also significantly (p<0.05) reduced chronic subdural hematoma recurrence.

Conclusion:

Preoperative hematoma thickness ≥ 20 mm is an independent predictor of recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma. Postoperative drainage also significantly reduces chronic subdural hematoma recurrence.

Proposal of Treatment Strategies for Bilateral Chronic Subdural Hematoma Based on Laterality of Treated Hematoma

Background:

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a disorder that is commonly seen in routine neurosurgery. Although risk factors for recurrence have been studied, the findings are inconsistent. Furthermore, bilateral CSDHs are operated unilaterally or bilaterally depending on symptoms or hematoma volume. Although there are cases in which hematomas on nonoperated side in unilaterally operated bilateral CSDHs requiring for additional operation, little have been studied on the effect of the surgical selection. The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors for recurrence in operated hematomas and additional operation in nonoperated hematomas and improve surgical strategy.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgery in our facility for bilateral CSDHs between January 2011 and December 2016. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine the relationship between recurrence or requirement for additional operation and clinical and radiological variables.

Results:

Recurrence was observed significantly more frequent for operated hematomas when hematoma type was separated type as reported previously. In unilaterally operated bilateral CSDHs, there were 22 hematomas on nonoperated side, and five hematomas required an additional operation after the first hospitalization. Increased volume of hematoma on the nonoperated side was the risk factors for additional operation (P = 0.022). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that requirement for additional operation significantly increased when hematoma volume enlarged to approximately 44 cm³ or greater 1 day after operation.

Conclusions:

In unilaterally operated bilateral CSDHs, when hematoma volume on nonoperated side increased 1 day after the last operation, additional operation in the early stage is considerable to prevent re-hospitalization and deterioration of activities of daily living.

Effects of Oral Streptokinase-Streptodornase on Remnant Chronic Subdural Hematomas

OBJECTIVE

In most cases, the postoperative course of a chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is good, but CSDHs sometimes remain after the inserted catheter is removed, and the outcomes of such remnant hematomas are unclear. As oral streptokinase-streptodornase (OSS) has anti-inflammatory and hematologic effects, we assessed the effects of OSS on remnant CSDHs through a retrospective analysis of clinical data.

METHODS

This study included 101 patients with traumatic CSDH who had remnant CSDH after burr-hole trephination with the closed drainage system between October 2009 and December 2012. We assessed the clinical outcomes, remnant CSDH volume, and recurrence rate from computed tomography scans in order to evaluate the effects of OSS.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found in the changes in remnant hematoma volume between the OSS-treated and non-treated groups (p=0.531). The reoperation rate because of was 5.4% (2 patients) in the OSS-treated group and 6.3% (4 patients) in the non-treated group. The number of patients requiring reoperation did not differ between the groups (p=0.658).

CONCLUSION

OSS treatment was not associated with a significant reduction in the remnant CSDH volume or recurrence rate after burr-hole drainage. Thus, there seems to be no basis for using OSS in CSDH patients.