Neurosurg Focus
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Comparative Study
Complications of cranioplasty following decompressive craniectomy: analysis of 62 cases.
Decompressive craniectomy is a potentially life-saving procedure used in the treatment of medically refractory intracranial hypertension, most commonly in the setting of trauma or cerebral infarction. Once performed, surviving patients are obligated to undergo a second procedure for cranial reconstruction. The complications following cranial reconstruction are not well described in the literature and may very well be underreported. A review of the complications would suggest measures to improve the care of these patients. ⋯ Cranioplasty following decompressive craniectomy is associated with a high complication rate. Patients undergoing a bifrontal craniectomy are at significantly increased risk for postcranioplasty complications, including the need for reoperation.
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Comparative Study
A comparison of hinge craniotomy and decompressive craniectomy for the treatment of malignant intracranial hypertension: early clinical and radiographic analysis.
Hinge craniotomy (HC) has recently been described as an alternative to decompressive craniectomy (DC). Although HC may obviate the need for cranial reconstruction, an analysis comparing HC to DC has not yet been published. ⋯ Hinge craniotomy appears to be at least as good as DC in providing postoperative ICP control and results in equivalent early clinical outcomes.
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Elevated intracranial pressure is one of the most common causes of death and disability following severe traumatic brain injury and ischemic stroke. Unfortunately, there have been no new medical treatments for cerebral edema and elevated intracranial pressure in more than 80 years. ⋯ When performed correctly, this procedure can reduce intracranial pressure and prevent cerebral herniation and death. The last decade has seen a renewed interest in the use of decompressive craniectomy, but many questions remain regarding patient selection, timing of surgery, surgical technique, timing of cranioplasty, and complications.