The central role of bridging veins in the pathogenesis of chronic subdural hematoma
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61997/bjm.v15i1.496Keywords:
Bridging veins, Venous sinus, Superior sagittal sinus, Chronic subdural hematomaAbstract
Background: The prevalence of chronic subdural hematoma continues to increase and is expected to become the most common neurosurgical condition by 2030. Its origin has been associated with the rupture of bridging veins into the subdural space. Method: This review aims to systematise knowledge about the bridging veins to the superior sagittal sinus through a narrative literature review of articles in English and Spanish from 2012 to 2025. Results: The bridging veins to the superior sagittal sinus exhibit great anatomical and morphological variability. Three types of anatomical configurations are identified; long and tortuous veins rupture more easily, especially when they enter at a right angle. Conclusion: Physiological aging causes brain atrophy and loss of vein elasticity, predisposing to rupture due to multifactorial causes. They have a diverse angioarchitecture and play a central role in the origin of spontaneous and traumatic chronic subdural hematomas.
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