Retrospective Analysis of Re-operated Patients after Chronic Subdural Hematoma Surgery

Objective : The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical symptoms, radiological changes, interval from first operation to symptom recurrence and to propose the proper treatment method for re-operated patients following chronic subdural hematoma surgery. Methods : Between January 1992 and April 2003, 18 of 138patients of chronic subdural hematoma repeatedly underwent surgical treatment. The symptoms, mental status by Bender grade, radiological hematoma size and midline shifting, interval from symptom onset to diagnosis, surgical method and prognosis by Glasgow outcome scale[GOS] between the first attack and the recurrence were compared. Results : The symptoms at the time of recurrence were nearly the same as with the first attack, but two patients[2/18, 11.1%] showed a more declined mentality. In addition, the recurred hematoma sizes were the same or large than those previously found. Many patients were recurred within two weeks[13/18, 72.2%]. Most patients were operated on using the previous burr hole, with the exception of one patient who recurred at a different site. All patients had a good prognosis more than GOS 4 [GOS 4:4, GOS 5:12], but two died due to extracranial complication and infection. Conclusion : These results suggest that the early diagnosis and treatment are important, mostly recurred same symptoms within two weeks. Re-operation using the previous burr hole site is a good method.