Management depends on the patient's clinical condition, radiological findings, and the presence of any neurological deterioration.
If the effusion is small and the patient is asymptomatic, close clinical and radiological follow-up (serial CT scans) is recommended. Effusions may resolve spontaneously over time. Measures to optimize cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics, such as adequate hydration, avoiding excessive lumbar drainage, and careful control of intracranial pressure (ICP), may be helpful.
Dexamethasone: May be used to reduce inflammation and stabilize the blood-brain barrier, though its effectiveness is debated. Acetazolamide: Can help reduce CSF production in cases where overproduction or poor absorption contributes to effusion. Careful ICP management: If ICP is low, a period of supine positioning and fluid administration may help restore equilibrium.
Burr-Hole Drainage: Indicated if the effusion becomes symptomatic with mass effect or progresses to a subdural hematoma.
Subduroperitoneal Shunt: In cases where persistent effusions cause increased ICP or hydrocephalus, a shunt can help divert excess fluid.
Re-expansion of the Brain: Strategies such as gradual CSF drainage (if external ventricular drain or lumbar drain is in place) can aid in brain expansion, reducing the risk of persistent effusion.
Addressing Underlying Causes
If the effusion is secondary to a CSF leak, targeted treatment such as repairing a dural defect or using epidural blood patches may be necessary.
Mild effusions without symptoms → Observe with serial imaging.
Increasing effusion size or mild symptoms → Consider medical therapy.
Significant midline shift, mass effect, or neurological decline → Surgical intervention is warranted.
The treatment choice should be tailored based on the clinical scenario and the patient's overall neurological status.
Postoperative contralateral subdural effusion needs more aggressive treatment because of its tendency to cause midline shift. Surgical intervention may be warranted if the patients develop deteriorating clinical manifestations or if the subdural effusion has an apparent mass effect 1).
Burr hole drainage appears to be only a temporary measure.
Burr hole trephination for postoperative contralateral subdural effusion treatment