Postoperative subdural hematoma as a rare complication of non-traumatic craniotomy

Abstract

Rationale: Postoperative intracranial hemorrhage is a serious and even fatal complication after non-traumatic craniotomy, in which epidural hematoma and intracerebral hematoma are relatively common. Postoperative subdural hematoma is rare, and its pathogenic mechanism remains unclear. Patient concerns: In the present study, we report 2 cases with postoperative subdural hematoma after non-traumatic craniotomy. Diagnoses: The diagnosis of acute subdural hematoma (aSDH) was rendered according to the imaging features. Interventions: Hematoma evacuation was performed immediately. Outcomes: Two months later, the first patient continued to have impaired consciousness and sensorimotor deficiency in the right extremities. And the second one remained unconscious and continued to have sensorimotor disturbance in the right extremities after 6 weeks of rehabilitation. Lessons: Neurosurgeons should be aware of potential subdural hematoma after non-traumatic craniotomy, since this condition is usually latent and associated with poor prognosis. Early identification and surgical evacuation should be highlighted.