Illustration of the impact of antiplatelet drugs on the genesis and management of chronic subdural hematoma

Abstract

The case of a 76-year-old male with a large chronic subdural hematoma that showed total regression with the mere suspension of aspirin, its only apparent causal factor, and that of an 81 year-old male on aspirin and clopidogrel with a chronic subdural hematoma who succumbed after burr holes due to two simultaneous severe hemorrhagic complications (cerebellar hemorrhage and ipsilateral acute subdural hematoma) are presented. The cases may provide support for the following management strategies: (i) if conservative management and drug suspension are feasible, they may well be worth trying and lead to a favorable outcome; (ii) if a patient is at risk of developing a chronic subdural hematoma, namely because of a minor acute subdural hematoma, withdrawal of antiplatelet agents should be considered; (iii) if surgery is necessary, its delay allows for the metabolization of the drug and platelet renewal, thereby minimizing the risk of hemorrhage; (iv) if urgent burr holes are indicated, measures to improve platelet function should be undertaken.