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Efficacy and Safety of Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Jiawei Zhang1, Chunlei Tang, Wei Li
1Weifang People's Hospital, Shandong Second Medical University.
Objective:
To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH).
Methods:
The clinical data of 15 patients with CSDH who received MMAE treatment in our hospital from April 2023 to July 2025 were retrospectively analyzed. Hematoma recurrence and progression, technical success rate, and procedure-related complications were evaluated at 3 months postoperatively.
Results:
Among the 15 patients (12 males and 3 females) with 17 CSDHs, 7 underwent MMAE alone, and 10 underwent MMAE combined with burr hole craniostomy (BHC). Embolization was successfully performed in all 17 hematomas without any procedure-related complications. The 3-month postoperative follow-up showed that 14 patients (16 hematomas) had favorable outcomes, with no recurrence or progression of hematomas observed. One patient with unilateral CSDH treated with MMAE alone showed no significant response, with hematoma absorption <50% at 3 months postoperatively; however, the hematoma was completely absorbed within 6 months following combined pharmacological treatment.
Conclusion:
Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is an effective modality for treating CSDH, significantly reducing the risk of hematoma recurrence and progression.
Insights
Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) effectively treats chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), showing no recurrence in most patients. This minimally invasive procedure offers a safe and promising option for CSDH management.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Chronic subdural hematoma (CSH) presents a significant clinical challenge.
- Current treatment options for CSH have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) for chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 15 CSDH patients treated with MMAE between April 2023 and July 2025.
- Outcomes assessed included hematoma recurrence, progression, technical success, and complications at 3 months post-procedure.
Main Results:
- Successful embolization in all 17 CSDHs across 15 patients, with no procedure-related complications.
- 14 patients (16 hematomas) achieved favorable outcomes at 3 months, with no recurrence or progression.
- One patient treated with MMAE alone showed slower absorption but complete resolution with subsequent treatment.
Conclusions:
- Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) demonstrates significant efficacy in treating CSDH.
- MMAE is associated with a reduced risk of hematoma recurrence and progression.
- MMAE is a safe and effective treatment modality for CSDH.
