Recent Advances and Future Directions in Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Chronic Subdural Hematomas

The purpose of this review is to present a brief background on chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH), middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization, and its role in decreasing recurrence of cSDH. A review of the most up-to-date literature should demonstrate the efficacy of this procedure.The latest data shows that MMA embolization is a safe procedure, with low complication rates and low recurrence rates. While cSDH managed with surgical evacuation can have a recurrence rate upwards of 30%, MMA embolization alone or as an adjunct to surgery decreases recurrence to less than 5% in most studies. MMA embolization can be especially useful in high-risk populations such as the elderly, patients on anti-platelet medication, and those with coagulopathies. It can also be done awake, done without general anesthesia, and is significantly less invasive than traditional surgical techniques. In reviewing the literature on MMA embolization, it is clear that there are numerous retrospective studies and systematic reviews demonstrating its safety and efficacy, and some prospective dual-arm studies that present novel information. The numerous clinical trials that are currently underway should help to further establish MMA embolization as standard of care in the management of cSDH.