European journal of neurology : the official journal of the European Federation of Neurological Societies
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Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is used regularly in traumatic brain injury (TBI). There are, however, no cost-effectiveness studies of the procedure. ⋯ Mortality after severe TBI leading to DC was high, but amongst the survivors, the health-related quality of life was equal to normal population. Most survivors were able to live at home and were almost as satisfied with their health as in general people are. Cost of neurosurgical treatment was low, and also including all evaluated costs, cost of a QALY gained was acceptable.