The Effects of Dexamethasone Used in the Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Abstract

Aim: In this study, we aimed to analyze the properties of drained subdural fluid and post-operative follow-up of patients with chronic subdural hematoma subdivided randomly into two groups according to presence or absence of dexamethasone treatment. Material and Methods: 42 patients with chronic subdural hematoma were involved in this study. The patients were divided into two groups according to dexamethasone treatment. 21 of the patients were treated with dexamethasone. All patients underwent burr hole craniotomy and a closed system drainage was constructed. The amount and properties of per-operative versus post-operative drained subdural fluid (hemoglobin, total protein and albumin levels) were analyzed. Cranial computerized tomography scans were used for follow-up and presence of fluid collection in subdural space was controlled. Results: When compared to per-operative laboratory results, statistically significant decrease was observed in both groups. However, the decrease in dexamethasone group was more significant compared to none-dexamethasone group. Follow-up computerized tomography results showed rare new subdural fluid collection development in dexamethasone group. Conclusion: As a result, Our findings suggest that surgery with dexamethasone treatment in chronic subdural hematoma patients has a more favourable clinic result compared to surgery without dexamethasone treatment.