Single versus double burr hole drainage of chronic subdural hematomas. A study of 267 cases.

A spectrum of surgical techniques has been used in the management of chronic subdural hematomas. Single burr hole and double burr hole drainage are among the commonest techniques. A retrospective analysis of 267 patients with chronic subdural hematomas treated surgically by either single or double burr holes was performed. Recurrence rates of subdural hematomas treated either with single or double burr holes were not significantly different (chi 2; p > 0.05). Thus, the number of burr holes does not affect the post-operative recurrence rate of chronic subdural hematomas. Both techniques are equally effective treatments.