Ns07
chronic Subdural Haematomas and Anticoagulation or Anti‐thrombolytic Therapy

Abstract

Purpose The use of anticoagulant therapy as a causative agent in the development of chronic subdural haematomas (CSDH) was investigated. We suspected a high incidence of anticoagulant therapy or anti‐thrombotic therapy in patients who presented with CSDH. Methodology Retrospective analysis of charts of eighty‐one cases of CSDH admitted to the neurosurgical unit of the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH), Tasmania, Australia, over a 5‐year period were reviewed. A database of neurosurgical procedures performed at RHH was examined to retrieve these patients undergoing surgery for CSDH. We found that anticoagulant therapy was used by a significant percentage of CSDH patients. Results/Conclusions In the patient group presenting to our unit the risk of developing a CSDH was at least 42.5 times higher in warfarinised patients and also increased for patients on aspirin, although the risk could not be quantified.