Transforming Subdural Hematoma Care: Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization at Marcus Neuroscience Institute

A fall. A sudden headache. A moment of confusion. For many older adults, these are more than just passing symptoms — they can signal a serious brain bleed called a subdural hematoma. 

At Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, part of Baptist Health, patients have access to world-renowned neurosurgeons like Brian Snelling, M.D., director of cerebrovascular  and endovascular neurosurgery and director of the stroke program. 

One of the most promising advances in his field is middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that significantly lowers the risk of subdural hematomas returning — often sparing patients from the need for multiple open surgeries. “This approach has been a game-changer for many of our patients, especially older adults on blood thinners,” says Dr. Snelling. “It allows us to treat the problem safely while helping patients recover faster.”

Dr. Snelling and his team are among the most experienced in the nation, with more than seven years of expertise and over 200 MMA embolizations performed. Thanks to a tiny incision in the wrist instead of traditional brain surgery, many patients are able to go home the very same day. This approach is especially safe for older adults and those with fragile health. For patients on blood thinners — whether for heart disease, atrial fibrillation or prior stroke — Dr. Snelling’s method allows medications to be restarted earlier, protecting them from other life-threatening conditions.

Our innovation extends beyond brain bleeds. For patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IH), a condition that can cause severe headaches and vision problems, Marcus Neuroscience Institute offers venous sinus stenting, restoring normal brain pressure and improving quality of life.

The Institute is also proud to be enrolled in multiple national stroke trials, giving patients in Boca Raton early access to promising investigational therapies that could define the future of stroke care.

But advanced medicine is only part of the story. At Marcus Neuroscience Institute, compassion is central to everything we do. “We know how frightening it is when a loved one is facing a brain emergency,” says Dr. Snelling. “I treat every patient as if he or she was a member of my own family — and I want families to feel informed, supported and reassured every step of the way.”

With 24/7 neuro-emergency response, state-of-the-art imaging and a team of experts who care for hundreds of patients each year, Marcus Neuroscience Institute delivers lifesaving care when every second counts — and the peace of mind families need most.