Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a condition that occurs when blood collects between the brain and its outer membrane, often due to minor head injuries. This accumulation of blood can put pressure on the brain, leading to symptoms like headaches, confusion, and coordination issues.
While anyone can develop a subdural hematoma, older adults, particularly those on blood thinners, are at higher risk. Traditional treatments for cSDH include invasive surgeries like burr hole drainage or craniotomy. However, a newer, minimally invasive option called Middle Meningeal Artery (MMA) Embolization is showing promising results for reducing recurrence and supporting faster recovery.
Chronic subdural hematomas typically develop slowly over weeks or months, often due to minor head trauma. In older adults, even a minor bump or fall can lead to bleeding between the layers surrounding the brain. This blood may build up, creating pressure that causes various symptoms, including:
The symptoms can worsen over time if untreated, impacting quality of life and increasing the risk of serious complications. Timely treatment is essential for preventing further deterioration and relieving symptoms.
Historically, cSDH has been treated with surgical procedures like burr hole drainage or craniotomy, which involve making an incision in the skull to drain the blood and reduce pressure on the brain. While these approaches can be effective, they carry heavy risks, including infection, longer recovery times, and a higher chance of recurrence. For older adults or patients with additional health concerns, these risks can be significant.
Fortunately, MMA Embolization has emerged as a safer, less invasive alternative with lower recurrence rates and fewer risks.
MMA embolization is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that addresses the root cause of chronic subdural hematomas by blocking the blood flow to the hematoma site. Here’s how the procedure works:
MMA embolization has numerous advantages, including a shorter recovery period, reduced risk of infection, and most notably, a significantly lower recurrence rate than traditional surgery. For many patients, these benefits make it an ideal alternative to invasive surgical options.
MMA embolization is much less invasive than burr hole drainage or craniotomy, which require incisions and direct access to the brain. This approach minimizes the risk of infection, reduces recovery time, and has shown a lower recurrence rate.
The procedure typically uses local anesthesia with mild sedation, keeping patients comfortable and pain-free without the need for general anesthesia.
Most patients experience a short recovery time and can resume normal activities within days, as opposed to the longer healing period associated with open surgery. Symptom improvement, such as relief from headaches or cognitive changes, is usually noticeable within a few weeks.
As with any procedure, there are potential risks, including mild discomfort, bruising at the catheter insertion site, or rare complications related to blood flow. However, MMA embolization generally carries fewer risks than traditional surgeries.
MMA embolization is often recommended for patients who:
For individuals who may not be good candidates for invasive surgery, MMA embolization offers a promising solution with fewer risks and a lower chance of recurrence.
For those facing chronic subdural hematomas, MMA embolization represents an effective, minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical options. With a lower recurrence rate, reduced recovery time, and fewer risks, this approach offers a promising path to improved health and quality of life.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms related to a subdural hematoma, consulting with a specialist like Dr. Nikhil Mehta or Dr. Cameron McDougall (click here to learn more) can help determine the best treatment options available.
To learn more about MMA embolization or to schedule a consultation, reach out to Vascular and Interventional Partners - we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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