Aspiration of parafalcine empyemas with flexible scope

Abstract

Purpose: Subdural empyemas are considered neurosurgical emergencies, and the parafalcine location is particularly insidious. We revised the experience of general surgeons who are used to manage chronic pleural purulent collections with video-assisted thoracoscopy.

Methods: With a similar technique, we successfully aspirated a parafalcine empyema using a flexible scope avoiding a more invasive craniotomy. A review of the treatment options of empyematous collections is also provided, focusing particularly on the hazardous parafalcine location.

Results: The management of subdural empyemas poses different decision-making problems compared to common brain abscesses, urging a more rapid and holistic surgical treatment with minimally invasive approach. Endoscopic aspiration of parafalcine empyema was followed by complete recovery in our patient.

Conclusions: Flexible endoscopy is a promising method to obtain complete pus removal even from loculated collections through a bur hole, avoiding large craniotomies and consequent potential complications.

Keywords: Empyema; Flexible scope; Neuroendoscopy; Parafalcine; Subdural empyema.