EANS Chronic Subdural Hematoma HANDS-ON Course

Event Notes:

Chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs) represent one of the most common neurosurgical conditions, particularly in elderly populations. While traditional surgical techniques such as burr-hole evacuation have long been the standard of care, there has been growing interest in minimally invasive alternatives to improve outcomes and reduce recurrence rates. Among these, middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment option, offering a less invasive yet highly effective approach, especially to avoid recurrences.

Recent landmark clinical trials and studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of MMA embolization in managing cSDHs. These trials highlight the technique’s ability to reduce recurrence rates, stabilize hematoma size, and, in some cases, obviate the need for surgical evacuation altogether. This compelling evidence has positioned MMA embolization as an essential addition to the armamentarium of modern neurosurgeons, particularly as the field seeks to adopt innovative and less invasive methods for treating this challenging condition.

Given the rapid pace of advancements and the increasing body of evidence supporting MMA embolization, there is an urgent need for a dedicated training course tailored specifically for neurosurgeons. Such a course would provide:

1. Theoretical grounding in the pathophysiology and indications for surgery and MMA embolization.
2. Hands-on practical training using simulators and real-world scenarios to familiarize participants with the procedural steps.
3. Expert insights into patient selection, perioperative management, and long-term follow-up strategies.
4. A platform to understand how this technique can be seamlessly integrated into neurosurgical practice, alongside traditional surgical interventions.
5. Pros and Cons of each device (coils, EVOH, glue etc) used for MMA Embolization
6. A network between young neurosurgeons interested in endovascular techniques and senior experts.