Rapid spontaneous resolution of traumatic acute subdural haematomas (ASDH) can occur but is rare. We present an 88-year-old female who presents with a large left acute subdural haematoma (ASDH) measuring 18 mm in thickness with midline shift of 10.7 mm. We managed her conservatively based upon good consciousness level and absent neurological deficits. Repeat computed tomography (CT) the following day demonstrated near complete resolution of the ASDH and midline shift regression; a further CT confirmed resolution. Most patients with large ASDH require surgical evacuation; however, in rare cases, they can resolve spontaneously with extreme rapidity. Conservative management can be a valid option in carefully selected cases.
Background: Chronic subdural haematoma (CSDH), is a common neurosurgical disorder that is associated with morbidity and mortality affecting the ageing population. The aim is to present the treatment experience of CSDH patients treated with a technique that combines the classical single burr-hole irrigation and the continuous closed system drainage: The closed system irrigation & drainage (CSID) technique.
Methods: The cases undergoing CSDH evacuation with the CSID method were captured over a 4-year period at a tertiary neurosurgical centre. The authors describe the performance of this methods with respect to post-operative clinical and radiological features, including recurrence rates, complications, and length of stay.
Results: A total of 36 cases undergoing 42 CSID procedures (30 unilateral and 6 bilateral CSDHs) were performed, in cases ranging between 55-95 years old (median age 79 years). The rate of recurrence or significant ruminant blood in the subdural space on post-operative imaging was 11% (n=4). No cases of pneumocephalus were observed in this series (n=0). The mean (SD) skin-to-skin time for this procedure was 13.4 (4.4) minutes, with a mean (SD) length of stay of 4 (1.9) days.
Conclusion: We conclude that the one burr-hole closed system irrigation and drainage technique with a sub-periosteal drain seems to be a simple, effective and safe procedure for treatment of CSDH. It’s well tolerated under local anaesthesia for patients with high co-morbidities and these preliminary results indicated it may potentially be a better option for treatment of CSDH with a lower rate of post-operative complications.
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