Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Historical and Clinical Perspective

World Neurosurg. 2017 Dec:108:948-953. doi: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.09.064. Epub 2017 Sep 19.

Abstract

Background: This review aims to highlight the clinical complexity of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) while presenting a brief historical discussion of cSDH.

Methods: A thorough literature search of published English-language papers was performed in PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane databases.

Results: cSDH affects 1-5.3 per 100,000 individuals annually, with the incidence expected to rise as the U.S. population ages. The symptoms of cSDH are often nonspecific, with headaches being the most common complaint. Other symptoms include weakness, balance and gait problems, and memory problems.

Conclusions: A variety of clinical factors must be taken into account in the treatment of cSDH, and the multifaceted treatment paradigms continue to evolve.

Keywords: Chronic; Hematoma; Membrane; Neurosurgery; Subdural; Trauma.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aftercare
  • Craniotomy*
  • Drainage*
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Chronic / diagnostic imaging
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Chronic / epidemiology
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Chronic / history
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Chronic / surgery*
  • History, 17th Century
  • History, 18th Century
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • Humans
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Trephining*
  • United States