Neurological Disorders

Avoiding Pneumocephalus after Chronic Subdural Hematoma Evacuation: The Temporary Double Drainage Technique

Abstract

Cecchini G

Aim: Chronic subdural hematoma presents an increasing challenge as the population ages. Despite the plethora of surgical techniques described, a high recurrence rate is still encountered. One of the possible risk factor for recurrence is post-operative pneumocephalus. The technique described is focused on avoiding post-operative pneumocephalus and obtaining complete hematoma evacuation.
Methods: We describe a simple surgical technique consisting of a temporary double air-fluid inverse drainage. Results: The technique proposed in this paper allows the complete evacuation of the hematoma fluid and, at the same time, the removal of intracranial air employing the same devices normally used in the standard procedure.
Conclusion: The technique proposed in this paper is safe, simple and could be highly effective