Impact of Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization on Recurrence and Functional Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Chronic subdural hematoma(CSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical disorders, particularly among older adults, and its incidence continues to increase worldwide because of population aging and the growing use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. The condition usually develops following minor head trauma that results in rupture of bridging veins; however, current evidence suggests that the persistence and enlargement of CSDH are primarily driven by chronic inflammation, angiogenesis, and recurrent microhemorrhages originating from fragile neovascular membranes rather than the initial bleeding event alone. These pathological mechanisms contribute to progressive hematoma expansion, neurological deterioration, and substantial morbidity and mortality if left untreated.Surgical evacuation through burr-hole remains the standard treatment for symptomatic CSDH and is generally associated with rapid neurological improvement. Nevertheless, postoperative recurrence remains a major challenge, with recurrence rates ranging from approximately 8% to 20%, often necessitating repeat surgical intervention. Recurrent hematomas increase healthcare costs, prolong hospitalization, and are associated with poorer functional recovery, particularly in elderly and medically frail patients. Consequently, there has been increasing interest in adjunctive therapies that target the underlying pathophysiology responsible for recurrence rather than simply evacuating the hematoma.Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has recently emerged as a promising minimally invasive treatment for CSDH. The rationale for MMAE is based on occluding the vascular supply to the outer neomembrane of the hematoma, thereby reducing ongoing inflammatory exudation and recurrent microhemorrhage that sustain hematoma growth. Unlike conventional surgery, which addresses the hematoma itself, embolization targets the biological process responsible for hematoma persistence and recurrence. As a result, MMAE has been investigated both as a standalone therapy for selected patients and as an adjunct to surgical evacuation to reduce postoperative recurrence.MMAE significantly reduces the risk of hematoma recurrence and the need for repeat surgery compared with standard treatment alone, without increasing serious complications or mortality. However, although recurrence outcomes have shown clear improvement, the effect of MMAE on functional recovery, commonly assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).