Use of Closed Drainage System for a Period Between 3 To 7 Days, Under Antibiotic Cover is Safe in Chronic Subdural Hematoma Treatment

Chronic subdural hematoma is a common neurosurgical problem in the elderly. There has been interest in the use of closed system drainage after initial irrigation. This may lead to infection. The objective of our study was to assess the risk of infection with the use of drain over a period of 7 days. In 27 patients closed system drainage was used. It was removed whenever drainage became less than 25 ml/24 hours. The upper limit for keeping the drain was 7 days. None of the patients required the drain for more than 7 days. The risk of meningitis was assessed. There was no patient who developed local wound infection or meningitis. Conclusion: It is safe to use closed drainage system for continued drainage of chronic subdural hematoma under antibiotic cover for 7 days