Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Keep It Simple

Abstract

The quotation, attributed to Confucius many centuries ago, in our opinion, applies to the evolving story of defining a primary surgical treatment for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. The precise quote is: “Keep it simple and focus on what matters. Don’t let yourself be overwhelmed.” 1 The evidence from multiple trials on intracerebral hemorrhage regarding mortality benefit and potential functional benefit directs us toward the simple task of evacuating the clot, similar to our prime focus on opening the artery in ischemic stroke. We need not be overwhelmed by questions about adjustments to patient selection, comparative techniques, and precision timing, for which we do not have conclusive data. We review the consensus results from the recent MISTIE trial (Minimally Invasive Surgery Plus Alteplase in ICH Evacuation) and ENRICH trial (Early Minimally Invasive Removal of Intracerebral Hemorrhage) and articulate remaining questions where further evidence is needed to challenge equipoise and define future practice.