Navi Mumbai News: Vashi Doctors Use Minimally Invasive Brain Surgery To Treat Hidden Bleed In 65-Year-Old Patient

A series of unexplained falls, weakness, and excessive drowsiness in a 65-year-old man were traced to an internal brain bleed and successfully treated through minimally invasive endoscopic brain surgery at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi. The patient, Jenna, had experienced a fall over three months ago, followed by progressive weakness on one side of his body and unusual fatigue, which his family initially attributed to aging and poor nutrition.

As his condition worsened with slowed movements, prolonged sleeping hours, and increasing imbalance his family sought medical attention. A thorough evaluation by a medical team led by Dr. Samir Kale, Consultant – Neuro and Spine Surgery, revealed that Jenna was suffering from a Membranous Chronic Subdural Hematoma (CSDH) a condition where layered blood collections accumulate inside the skull, compressing the brain.

Jenna, who had previously undergone heart stenting and was on blood thinning medication, was at higher risk for internal cranial bleeding. “Blood had started leaking inside the skull due to the blood thinners, leading to one-sided weakness and imbalance. The symptoms progressed slowly, and due to their vague nature, imaging was delayed,” explained Dr. Kale.

Unlike typical subdural hematomas that require a single burr hole for drainage, membranous hematomas involve layered blood collections, requiring removal of each layer. "Previously, this necessitated a large craniotomy, but in Jenna’s case, we opted for a minimally invasive endoscopic approach. With a small 2 cm incision, the surgical team accessed the hematoma with precision, minimizing trauma and risk," doctor said.

Dr. Kale highlighted the advantages of this method, “Using an endoscope allowed us clear, magnified vision inside the skull, enabling us to safely remove the hematoma with less bleeding, lower infection risk, and reduced chance of recurrence.” The small incision also resulted in quicker healing and shorter hospital stay.

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Wiithin 24 hours of surgery, Jenna’s strength and balance began to return. He was able to walk, lift objects, and showed no further signs of drowsiness or instability. Within a week, he had fully regained his physical strength and independence.

Dr. Kale noted that Membranous CSDH is more common among elderly patients on blood thinners, and is often misdiagnosed due to subtle or transient symptoms. He urged that patients experiencing limb weakness, numbness, or slowed activity should consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon without delay. “These symptoms are often dismissed as age-related fatigue, but they may indicate serious underlying conditions,” he warned.