Scandinavian Multicenter Acute Subdural Hematoma (SMASH) Study: Study Protocol for a Multinational Population-Based...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Traumatic acute subdural hematomas (ASDHs) are linked to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in the elderly.
• Recent data suggests potential improvements in outcomes for ASDH patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare 30-day mortality and 6-month functional outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Scale) between younger and elderly (≥70 years) patients undergoing surgical ASDH evacuation.
• To analyze patterns of care and identify prognostic variables for traumatic ASDH patients.

Main Methods:

• A large-scale, population-based Scandinavian study including all adult patients surgically treated for traumatic ASDH between 2010-2014.
• Data collected from neurosurgical departments in Denmark and Sweden.
• ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03284190.

Main Results:

• The study anticipates revealing differences in mortality and morbidity between younger and elderly ASDH patients.
• It is hypothesized that surgical care patterns are similar for both age groups.
• Functional outcomes (GOS) at 6 months will be compared, and prognostic factors for favorable/unfavorable outcomes will be identified.

Conclusions:

• Findings will enhance understanding of clinical outcomes, treatment, and resource allocation for traumatic ASDH.
• Identification of prognostic factors will aid neurosurgeons in optimizing treatment decisions for ASDH patients.