Thirty-three cases of subdural effusion in infancy

Abstract

A series of 33 cases of subdural effusion in infancy is presented. In four only was there a reasonable certainty of a traumatic aetiology; 15 followed purulent meningitis and in 12 the effusion appeared in the course of a general illness with gastroenteritis, malnutrition and bronchopneumonia. Neurosurgical intervention was limited to burr holes in 22 cases; craniotomy for removal of the membrane was performed on two occasions only. The immediate results of such conservative management were considered to justify withholding major surgery, though final opinion must wait upon a long follow-up.