Predictors of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Recurrence Following Surgical Intervention: A Review of the Recent Literature?

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is an increasingly common neurosurgical condition worldwide. Surgical evacuation is the mainstay of treatment, but re-operation is necessary in 10-20% of patients due to hematoma recurrence. Though risk factors for CSDH formation are welldescribed, there is less consensus regarding CSDH recurrence, due in part to variations in operative procedure and follow-up protocols. Here we review studies from the past three years to update our understanding of predictors of post-operative CSDH recurrence. Well-evidenced threads include advanced age and loculated hematoma on pre-operative imaging, but other candidate risk factors such as anti-thrombotic therapy are still under active debate. Subsequent prospective, controlled studies are needed to further characterize these findings, which will help refine indications and clinical care guidelines for this growing patient population.

Keywords: Chronic subdural hematoma; Subdural hematoma evacuation; Subdural hematoma recurrence

Abbreviations: SDH: Subdural Hematoma; CSDH: Chronic Subdural Hematoma