[Subdural hematoma complicated after open heart surgery: a report of two cases with successful treatment]

Two cases of subdural hematoma complicated after open heart surgery were successfully treated during thirty years history of the department. A 45 year-old woman underwent tricuspid valve replacement due to isolated congenital tricuspid insufficiency. On the 27th postoperative day, she was suddenly attacked by headache, and disturbance of consciousness was recognized with gradual deterioration. Brain CT scan showed a subdural hematoma on the right frontal region. Immediate irrigation of the hematoma was performed. Postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged without any complications. A 59 year-old woman underwent mitral valve replacement due to mitral re-stenosis. On the 3rd postoperative day, disturbance of consciousness was seen suddenly. Brain CT scan showed a subdural hematoma in the bilateral posterior cranial fossa. Immediate GL-YCEOL drip infusion was started. On the next day consciousness returned without operation and she was discharged without any neurological complications. Both patients did not have head trauma during pre and post operative period. It was important to consider the possibility of a intracranial hematoma, when the disturbance of consciousness was recognized after open heart surgery and/or during anticoagulant therapy.