Comparing embolization and surgery for treating chronic subdural hematomas

Chronic Subdural Hematoma Treatment with Embolization vs Surgery or MedicalManagement Study (CHESS)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON · NIH-11142185

This study is looking at whether a new treatment called middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is better than traditional surgery for helping people with chronic subdural hematomas, and it’s for patients who have moderate symptoms and want to see if this new option can lead to fewer surgeries and better recovery in the next six months.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GALVESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11142185 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) compared to conventional surgery for treating chronic subdural hematomas (CSDH). It aims to determine if MMAE can reduce the need for additional surgeries and improve patient outcomes within 180 days. The study will involve multiple centers and will randomly assign patients with moderately symptomatic CSDH to receive either MMAE or conventional surgery. Patients will be monitored for safety and efficacy, focusing on neurological status and adverse events.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with moderately symptomatic chronic subdural hematomas who are considering treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with severe symptoms or those who have already undergone treatment for chronic subdural hematomas may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a less invasive treatment option for patients with chronic subdural hematomas, potentially leading to better outcomes and fewer complications.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary experiences suggest that MMAE may be more effective than conventional surgery, but this research is among the first to rigorously compare these approaches in a randomized controlled trial.

Where this research is happening

GALVESTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.