Embolization of the Middle meningeal artery in chronic subdural hematoma - A systematic review

Chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) are one of the most frequent reasons for consultation in neurosurgery. Multiple authors have proposed middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) as an option in cSDH patients to manage recurrence or avoid surgery altogether. Although many articles have been published on the matter, the current body of evidence still has to be evaluated before MMAE is integrated into clinical practice. The goal of this study was to review the evidence on MMAE in cSDH to assess its safety, feasibility, indications and efficacy. We performed a systematic review of the literature according to PRISMA guidelines using multiple electronic databases. Our search yielded a total of 18 original articles from which data were extracted. A total of 190 patients underwent MMAE from which 81.3% were symptomatic cSDH. Over half (52.3%) of the described population were undergoing antithrombotic therapy. Most (83%) procedures used polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles and no complications were reported regarding the embolization procedures. Although the definition of resolution varied among authors, cSDH resolution was reported in 96.8% of cases. MMAE is a feasible technique for cSDH, but the current body of evidence does not yet support its use as a standard treatment. Further studies with a higher level of evidence are necessary before MMAE can be formally recommended.