A modified technique to treat subdural hematomas: the subdural evacuating port system.
BACKGROUND
The Subdural Evacuating Port System (SEPS) is intended for drainage of subdural fluid collections such as hygromas and hematomas. Unlike other subdural fluid drainage systems, no drain is placed in the subdural space. This paper describes the technique and reports our experience thus far.


METHODS
We treated 20 patients for 22 subdural hematomas. One or two ports were inserted for drainage of each subdural collection. Follow-up ranged from six to 24 months.


RESULTS
Follow-up CT obtained at approximately one month postprocedure showed complete or near complete resolution of 18 of the subdural collections. Failure of the SEPS was noted in four patients and was related to plugging of the drainage system by clots secondary to the presence of fresh blood in the subdural collection.


CONCLUSIONS
The Subdural Evacuating Port System (SEPS) permits the neurosurgeon to drain subacute or chronic hematomas by a method which is minimally invasive, simple and safe.
Asfora
W T
WT
USDSM, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
Schwebach
L
L
Louw
D
D
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004322:Drainage / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006408:Hematoma, Subdural / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome