Post-operative seizures after burr hole evacuation of chronic subdural hematomas: is prophylactic anti-epileptic medication needed?

There are limited data with regards to the associated risk of post-operative seizures in patients with surgically treated chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs). The use of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) is associated with significant side effects.

A retrospective chart review was performed on patients operated via burr hole for CSDH in our institution from 2004 to 2013. Post-operative seizures at 1-year follow-up were identified. Demographic data, medical history, and imaging characteristics were recorded.

A total of 220 patients were included in the study. Post-operative seizures occurred in 2.3%. The mean time of onset of seizures was 8.4 days. No difference in age and gender between seizing and non-seizing groups was identified p > 0.05. Mean midline shift was 4.6 mm in seizing group vs. 4.2 mm in non-seizing group, p > 0.05. Mean thickness was 14.6 mm in patients without post-operative seizures and 18.4 mm in patients with post-operative seizures, p > 0.05. There was no significant difference in post-operative seizure incidence related to the side or location of the CSDHs.

The incidence of post-operative seizures in patients with CSDH evacuated via burr holes was low. Prophylactic AEDs should not be routinely administered if no other risk factor for seizure exists. Demographic and clinical factors did not appear to influence post-operative seizures.