Chronic subdural hematoma: Epidemiological analysis and factors associated with hematoma size – A single center experience

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to analyze the profile of patients with chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) and to verify the factors associated with hematoma size.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, retrospective and observational case series of consecutive patients who underwent surgical treatment for cSDH at the Hospital de Clínicas de Passo Fundo, between 2018 and 2022. Data were extracted from the patients’ history records and imaging exams available. Patients’ characteristics were grouped and described through their respective prevalence. The relationship between patients’ characteristics and outcome (discharge or death) was analyzed using Fisher's exact test. Hematoma size was described in millimeters using means, and the relationship between hematoma size, patient age and hematoma side was tested using Student's t test.

Results

A total of 95 individuals were included in the study. Of these, 66.3 % were male and 7.4 % died. The mean age was 72 years. The most common symptoms and history findings were history of trauma (69.9 %), motor deficit (68.4 %) and cognitive deficit (26.3 %). The average hematoma size was similar on both sides, and showed an increasing trend with aging. The size of cSDH was also greater in those who presented motor deficits.

Conclusion

Surgically treated patients with cSDH had high rates of cognitive deficit, motor deficit and history of trauma. In addition, mortality rate was considered low and the size of hematoma was associated with age and motor deficits.