Delayed neurological improvement in a patient with Duret hemorrhage secondary to an acute subdural hematoma: illustrative case

Abstract

BACKGROUND Duret hemorrhage is a rare phenomenon wherein rapid transtentorial herniation results in brainstem injury and hemorrhage. It is usually regarded as a poor prognostic factor representing irreversible and often catastrophic brain injury. The authors report an unusual case of Duret hemorrhage with spontaneous delayed neurological recovery postoperatively after surgical treatment of an acute subdural hematoma (SDH). OBSERVATIONS The authors present the case of a 65-year-old male who initially presented to the hospital with a large acute left-sided SDH causing 1.3 cm of midline shift. He was taken urgently for a craniotomy, with no significant intraoperative swelling or visible contusions. Postoperative imaging revealed an unexpected pontine hyperdensity concerning for a Duret hemorrhage. He initially had no neurological improvement; however, at 3 weeks postoperatively, he gradually recovered and was able to follow commands and was extubated. At 10 weeks after surgery, his Glasgow Coma Scale score improved to 15, with mild residual left hemiparesis. LESSONS This case challenges a classic dogma that Duret hemorrhage carries a universally poor outcome. In select cases, patients can make meaningful recoveries in a delayed fashion. The lack of intraoperative contusions and swelling may have contributed to this patient’s recovery.