Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization via a minimally invasive endovascular approach has been attempted with the goal of eliminating the arterial supply to the vascularized membrane. The investigators have recently presented the first known case series of MMA embolization as upfront treatment for cSDH in lieu of surgical evacuation (publication pending). Five patients underwent successful embolization of the MMA with subsequent reduction in size or complete resolution of cSDH with no peri-procedural complications. The purpose of this study will be to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MMA embolization compared to traditional surgical management for symptomatic, chronic, and medically refractory SDH. MMA embolization is an established procedure used routinely for treatment of tumors or vascular malformations; this study investigates the use of an established procedure for a new disease. The investigators hypothesize that MMA embolization will afford a particularly fragile patient population an alternative to invasive and morbid neurosurgical intervention.