Is Decompressive Craniectomy is an effective method in treatment of brain swelling in traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Background: Decompressive craniectomy is considered a line of treatment strategy that indicated after failure of conservative management. Aim of work :to detect the effectiveness of decompressive Craniotomy as treatment of brain swelling in traumatic brain injury Methods: A cross-sectional study was employed including 20 patients of severe closed head injury in age between 18 and 48 years old operated with decompressive craniectomy and duraplasty. All patients had Glasgow coma score 4 to 8. We follow up the cases at least 6 months following Glasgow outcome scale score. Results: The poor outcome were reported with score 1, 2 and 3 (death, vegetative and severe disability in 35% of cases, while good prognosis are reported in score 4 and 5 (moderate, mild or no disability). The outcome is better with younger patient, high Glasgow coma score, low intracranial pressure and presence of papillary reflex. Conclusion: .Decmpressive craniotomy and duraplasty is a safe procedure that correct the intercranial, so improving the outcome. It is recommended for cases of severe head injury with cerebral swelling in CT scan and medically refractory intracranial hypertension with clinical deterioration neurologically. Conflict of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sector.