Persistent facial nerve palsy after middle meningeal artery embolization for subdural hematoma: a case report

ObjectiveTo describe a case of persistent facial nerve palsy after middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH).MethodsA literature search was conducted for publications within the last 10 years of facial nerve palsy following cerebral circulation embolization procedures.ResultsWith inconsistencies between previously believed pathophysiology and clinical features, other mechanisms causing cSDH such as angiogenesis and capillary formation have been proposed. MMA embolization has evolved as a therapeutic approach to reduce recurrence of subdural hematoma; however, postoperative neural complications such as cranial nerve palsies are poorly described in the literature.ConclusionscSDH is increasingly more common and is on trajectory to become the most prevalent cranial neurosurgical condition. MMA embolization is described as a safe and minimally invasive procedure; however, as a relatively new procedure further research is needed to elucidate associated complications.