Surgical evacuation without versus with middle meningeal artery embolization in chronic subdural hematoma: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) combined with surgery versus surgery alone in chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH).

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MMAE combined with surgery to surgery alone. And outcomes were pooled using a random-effects model. Primary efficacy outcome was treatment failure (recurrence or reoperation). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) employed to assess the robustness of the evidence for treatment failure. Primary safety outcomes included serious adverse events. Secondary efficacy outcomes included changes in hematoma volume, hematoma thickness, and functional independence (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0-2). Secondary safety outcome was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of six RCTs, involving 1,222 patients, were included in the analysis. MMAE combined with surgery significantly reduced treatment failure risk (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.35-0.89, P = 0.02) compared to surgery alone. In the TSA, the cumulative z-line crossed the boundary for effect. No significant differences were observed in serious adverse events (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.84-1.44), changes in hematoma volume (MD -7.19; 95% CI, -25.25-10.86; P = 0.43), change in hematoma thickness (MD 0.08; 95% CI, -1.00-1.15; P = 0.89) or mortality (RR 1.52, 95% CI 0.81-2.85; P= 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

MMAE, as an adjunct to surgery, reduces the risk of treatment failure in CSDH without compromising safety outcomes, but further trials are needed for validation.