Subdural | Cortex Neurovascular

Advanced Care for Subdural Hematomas

A subdural hematoma is a type of bleeding that occurs outside the brain but under the skull, specifically between the brain’s surface and the dura mater (the outermost membrane covering the brain). Subdural hematomas can arise from head injuries, falls, or spontaneously in individuals with certain risk factors such as older age or on anticoagulant therapy. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, weakness, seizures, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

Traditionally, subdural hematomas have been treated surgically through procedures like burr hole surgery or craniotomy to remove the accumulated blood. However, embolization has emerged as a less invasive alternative for certain types of chronic subdural hematomas, especially those that recur after initial surgical treatment.

Embolization for subdural hematomas is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to treat the condition by targeting the blood vessels feeding the membrane surrounding the hematoma, rather than directly removing the hematoma itself. Here’s how it works:

Performed under local anesthesia and sedation for patient comfort.
A catheter is inserted through a small incision, typically in the groin, and navigated to the arteries supplying the dura mater surrounding the brain.
Tiny particles or coils are then introduced through the catheter to block these blood vessels, reducing the risk of further bleeding into the subdural space.
Post-procedure Care: Patients are monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home.

Minimally Invasive: Compared to traditional surgery, embolization offers a less invasive approach with fewer risks and complications.
Reduced Recovery Time: Patients typically experience a quicker recovery, allowing them to return to their daily activities sooner.
Decreased Recurrence Rates: Embolization can effectively reduce the likelihood of hematoma recurrence by addressing the underlying vascular contributors to the condition.