Efficacy and Safety of Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Chronic Subdural Hematoma

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) in the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH). METHODS: The clinical data of 15 patients with CSDH who received MMAE treatment in our hospital from April 2023 to July 2025 were retrospectively analyzed. Hematoma recurrence and progression, technical success rate, and procedure-related complications were evaluated at 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Among the 15 patients (12 males and 3 females) with 17 CSDHs, 7 underwent MMAE alone, and 10 underwent MMAE combined with burr hole craniostomy (BHC). Embolization was successfully performed in all 17 hematomas without any procedure-related complications. The 3-month postoperative follow-up showed that 14 patients (16 hematomas) had favorable outcomes, with no recurrence or progression of hematomas observed. One patient with unilateral CSDH treated with MMAE alone showed no significant response, with hematoma absorption <50% at 3 months postoperatively; however, the hematoma was completely absorbed within 6 months following combined pharmacological treatment. CONCLUSION: Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is an effective modality for treating CSDH, significantly reducing the risk of hematoma recurrence and progression.