Decompressive Suboccipital Craniectomy Research Articles

Endolymphatic sac tumor: An urgent case presenting acute intracranial hypertension successfully treated with suboccipital decompressive craniectomy – 8 years of follow-up

Background: Endolymphatic sac tumor (ELST) is a rare lesion. It may be sporadically or associated with Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. Progressive audiovestibular symptoms characterize the typical clinical presentation. Here, we report a unique case of ELST with acute intracranial hypertension (IH) due to tumor compression, successfully treated with an urgent suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC). Case Description: A 33-year-old woman previously underwent a biopsy and ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The histopathological finding revealed an ELST. One year later, she developed headache, vomiting, and somnolence due to brainstem compression. An urgent SDC was performed. One month later, preoperative endovascular embolization and partial tumor resection were carried out. After 6 months adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) therapy was administered. She has been under follow-up for 8 years since the last surgical procedure, and the tumor remains stable. Conclusion: ELST generally has a progressive clinical course. This is a unique case with acute IH due to tumor compression. The tumor’s high vascularity and the unavailability of endovascular embolization precluded its resection. SDC was an alternative approach. The final treatment included tumor embolization, surgical resection, and RT. No progression was observed for 8 years after the last procedure, and long-term follow-up is warranted.

Simultaneous two-stage surgical treatment for Chiari malformation association with occlusive hydrocephalus: a clinical case

Treatment of patients with the simultaneous presence of Chiari malformation type I (MC I) and hydrocephalus may include both one-stage and two-stage surgical interventions. The article describes the two-stage surgical treatment experience performed for the first time in the Republic of Tajikistan. Description of the case. A 50-year-old female patient with a three-year history of bursting headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting developed impaired coordination of movements and decreased visual acuity. Computed tomography (CT) revealedsigns of MC I: descent of the cerebellar tonsils 5 mm below the level of the foramen magnum and occlusive triventricular hydrocephalus with symmetrical enlargement of the lateral and third ventricles. The patient underwent surgery – endoscopic third ventriculocisternostomy (ETV) in combination with decompressive suboccipital craniectomy, which was supplemented by CI laminectomy. After the surgery, the symptoms regressed. According to the control CT scan, there was a moderate decrease in the size of the lateral and third ventricles, restoration of the normal anatomical structure of the posterior cranial fossa.

Predictors of clinical outcomes in space-occupying cerebellar infarction undergoing suboccipital decompressive craniectomy.

Despite current clinical guidelines recommending suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) in cerebellar infarction when patients present with neurological deterioration, the precise definition of neurological deterioration remains unclear and accurate timing of SDC can be challenging. The current study aimed at characterizing whether clinical outcomes can be predicted by the GCS score immediately prior to SDC and whether higher GCS scores are associated with better clinical outcomes. In a single-center, retrospective analysis of 51 patients treated with SDC for space-occupying cerebellar infarction, clinical and imaging data were evaluated at the time points of symptom onset, hospital admission, and preoperatively. Clinical outcomes were measured by the mRS. Preoperative GCS scores were stratified into three groups (GCS, 3-8, 9-11, and 12-15). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed using clinical and radiological parameters as predictors of clinical outcomes. In cox regression analysis GCS scores of 12-15 at surgery were significant predictors of positive clinical outcomes (mRS, 1-2). For GCS scores of 3-8 and 9-11, no significant increase in proportional hazard ratios was observed. Negative clinical outcomes (mRS, 3-6) were associated with infarct volume above 6.0 cm3, tonsillar herniation, brainstem compression, and a preoperative GCS score of 3-8 [HR, 2.386 (CI, 1.160-4.906); p = 0.018]. Our preliminary findings suggest that SDC should be considered in patients with infarct volumes above 6.0 cm3 and with GCS between 12 and 15, as these patients may show better long-term outcomes than those in whom surgery is delayed until a GCS score below 11.

Clinical outcome predictors in space-occupying cerebellar infarction undergoing suboccipital decompressive craniectomy

Clinical outcome predictors in space-occupying cerebellar infarction undergoing suboccipital decompressive craniectomy

소뇌의 급성기 뇌졸중 환자에서 부분적 두개골 피판을 이용한 후두와 감압적 두개절개술과 두개절제술의 추적관찰 결과 비교

Background : In patients with severe cerebellar hemorrhage or infarction, life-threatening complications may occur. It is generally known that early decompressive craniectomy is superior to craniotomy, but there is no clear guideline for the procedure. Materials and Methods : From April 2014 to April 2021, patients who underwent suboccipital decompressive craniectomy for cerebellar stroke were treated surgically and followed up. Since September 2020, we have performed craniotomy with obtuse angled partial bone flap in 6 patients. We compared the results of 6 months follow-up in these patients with 9 patients who had previously had only decompressive craniectomy. Results : There were no deaths during 6 months in either group. Preoperative modified Rankin Scale (mRS) (P = 0.659), 1 month (P = 0.659), 3 months (P = 0.713), and 6 months (P > 0.545) postoperative mRS showed no significant difference between them. Conclusions : The results were not inferior to those who underwent suboccipital craniotomy with obtuse-angled partial bone flap and those who underwent craniectomy.

Characteristics and Long-Term Outcome of Cerebellar Strokes in a Single Health Care Facility in Mexico.

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to analyze and discuss the clinical characteristics, long-term outcome, and prognostic factors of cerebellar strokes treated in a single health care facility in Mexico.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of adult patients admitted to our hospital with diagnosis of cerebellar ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke between 2018 and 2020. Baseline data included sociodemographic and radiological variables, treatment (surgical versus conservative), and Glasgow Coma Scale on arrival (GCSOA). The final neurological outcome was evaluated with the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) six months after hospital discharge.ResultsTen patients (seven male and three female) with a mean age of 57.9 ± 9.3 years were included, six with cerebellar ischemic infarction and four with cerebellar hemorrhage. Out of the 10 patients, four underwent surgery (suboccipital decompressive craniectomy {SDC} ± ventriculostomy). The outcome was favorable in four cases (40%) and unfavorable in six (60%). Patients who underwent surgical treatment fared worse with all four cases associating poor outcome. The comparison between good and poor outcome groups showed significant differences in the presence of obstructive hydrocephalus (one versus six, p = 0.05) and poorer GCSOA (6.16 ± 1.72 versus 12.5 ± 3.6, p = 0.05), associating poorer outcome.ConclusionThere is still controversy regarding the appropriate management of cerebellar strokes. The presence of obstructive hydrocephalus and poorer GCSOA are associated to worse outcomes.

Порушення ліквороциркуляції в пацієнтів з мальформацією Кіарі: предиктори розвитку сирингомієлітичних кіст і динаміка післяопераційного регресу

Актуальність. Мальформація Кіарі (МК) — це дефект розвитку центральної нервової системи, що проявляється невідповідністю розмірів задньої черепної ямки і розташованих у цій ділянці структур мозку і, як наслідок, опусканням мигдаликів мозочка (МК типу 1), зазвичай з каудальним зміщенням нижніх відділів стовбура мозку, у великий отвір (МК типу 1.5). Унаслідок порушення ліквороциркуляції в 60–90 % пацієнтів із МК спостерігається сирингомієлія. Матеріали та методи. Проведено ретроспективний аналіз клінічних даних 24 пацієнтів із мальформацією Кіарі типу 1 і 1.5, які перенесли оперативні втручання в Ужгородському обласному клінічному центрі нейрохірургії і неврології в період з грудня 2006 р. по грудень 2017 р., під час яких були виконанi субокципітальна декомпресивна краніектомія, ламінектомія на рівні С1, пластика твердої мозкової оболонки. Середній період спостереження після операції становив 5 років. Результати. У пацієнтів, у яких симптоми тривали понад 3 роки, частота утворення сирингомієлітичних кіст становила 57 %. Динаміка регресу порушень ліквороциркуляції в післяопераційному періоді значно варіює залежно від віку. Висновки. Ризик утворення порожнин, заповнених рідиною, у спинному мозку вищий у пацієнтів із МК типу 1 і 1.5, які хворіють понад 3 роки. Хірургічне лікування є ефективним методом, що використовується для корекції порушень ліквороциркуляції. Пункція кісти не є обов’язковою під час хірургічних втручань.

A Case of Bilateral Cerebellar Infarction Treated with Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy after Thrombectomy for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion

A Case of Bilateral Cerebellar Infarction Treated with Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy after Thrombectomy for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion

Outcomes following Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy for Posterior Fossa Stroke with Malignant Cerebellar Oedema: A Case Series and Review of the Literature

Suboccipital decompressive craniectomy is a procedure that has been performed to treat malignant cerebellar oedema secondary to posterior fossa strokes. Due to the rarity of the procedure, more evidence is required to better identify factors associated with good or poor outcomes to aid in appropriate patient selection for surgical intervention. Currently known good prognostic factors include reduced time until surgery from deterioration and unilateral infarction.

Cerebellar Infarct Accompanied by Acute Hydrocephalus: A Case Report of 1-Year Follow-up in Rural Neurosurgical Practice

Cerebellar infarctions account for about 2-3% of all ischemic strokes, and acute hydrocephalus due to brainstem compression or compression of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows is a rare manifestation from a stroke of the posterior circulation. The condition is considered one of the most life-threatening complications in cerebellar infarct due to the possibility of transforaminal and upward transtentorial herniation. The management of patients with cerebellar infarct is challenging, because the patient usually presents with non-specific signs and symptoms until the patient loses consciousness. Standard management should be provided by a stroke unit team or neuro-intensive care unit. The precision timing of treatment and evaluation with close observation is crucial, even when there is no life-threatening condition at initial presentation, but sometimes it is difficult to fulfill in rural areas due to the substandard facilities and lack of resources. Here we report a case of cerebellar infarct with massive edema in association with acute hydrocephalus with the progressive deterioration that happened in a rural area. A 59-year-old male patient complained about an episode of sudden headache which was followed by dizziness, vomiting, and loss of balance. A head non-contrast CT scan in the emergency room (ER) is performed 4 hours after ictus, showed a slightly hypodense lesion in the left cerebellum, without accompanying edema and hydrocephalus. The patient was then managed conservatively in the ward. In the next 36 hours, his consciousness level was reduced and a head CT scan evaluation showed the development of massive edema of cerebellar infarct with acute hydrocephalus. The patient underwent an emergency surgical procedure with suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) with strokectomy, expanded duraplasty, and ventricular drainage (ventriculoperitoneal shunt). Satisfactory results with rapid resolution of GCS was seen at daily follow-up after surgery. A 1-year follow-up also showed remarkable outcomes.

ACUTE CEREBELLAR INFARCTION: MANAGEMENT & OUTCOME AN INSTITUTIONAL EXPERIENCE

AIM: The main objective of this study is to analyze the management options and the outcome of the patients presenting with acute cerebellar infarction. A total of 45 patients (male-34; female- METHODS: 11) admitted with acute cerebellar infarction (ischemic) in our hospital during December 2019 – December 2020, were analyzed prospectively. We analyzed the clinical presentation, radiological investigation, associated co-morbid illness and the clinical outcome following various management strategies. 30 patients were managed conservatively, out of whi RESULTS: ch 25 patients survived and 5 patients expired. 8 patients were managed with ventricular drainage alone. 6 of them improved, whereas 1 patient expired. 7 patients needed sub-occipital decompressive craniectomy and removal of infarct in our study. 2 out of 7 patients survived and the rest died. Overall mortality in our series was 14.6%. The management criterion CONCLUSION: mainly depends on periodic clinical & radiological evaluation. Even though, the optimal timing and surgical methods remains controversial. Ventricular drainage alone can be reserved for patients with ventricular dilatation & sub-occipital decompressive craniectomy with or without EVD can be advocated for those with acute deterioration with brainstem compression.

Interlayer dural split technique for Chiari I malformation treatment in adult-Technical note.

To present an alternative surgical technique in treating cases of Chiari I Malformation with mild-to-moderate syringomyelia after decompressive suboccipital craniectomy: incising only the outer layer of the dura mater, then dissecting it from the inner layer without opening the latter. We utilized this technique in a short series of three cases who were admitted to our department for mild symptoms such as intermittent headache and dissociated sensory loss in the upper limbs, caused by a Chiari Malformation Type I. The patients were placed in the sitting position. We performed a reduced median suboccipital craniectomy and resection of the posterior arch of C1 adapted to the level of tonsil descent, from a limited superior half to complete resection. Afterward, we incised the outer dural layer, while sparing the inner one. Using a fine dissector, we then split apart the outer and inner layers to the margin of the craniectomy. Through the transparency of the inner layer and the arachnoid, the cerebellum and the medulla were visible and pulsating. An autologous fascia duraplasty was then performed. The postoperative course was favorable in all cases, the patients being discharged without any deficits and with complete symptom resolution. Follow-up at 3, 6, and 12months after surgery revealed a significant reduction in brainstem compression and syringomyelia. Interlayer dural split technique can be used effectively in treating symptomatic cases of type I Chiari malformation in adults, with mild-to-moderate syringomyelia. It is less invasive than opening the dura and possibly more effective than decompressive craniectomy and C1 laminectomy alone. This technique must be validated in a larger case-control series.

Sitting supracerebellar infratentorial approach for resection of posterior fossa arteriovenous malformation

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the posterior fossa represent just 5%–15% of all intracranial AVMs. Rupture often leads to devastating brainstem compression, with mortality reported as high as 67%. A life-saving decompressive craniectomy with or without hematoma evacuation may be necessary in the acute setting to alleviate mass effect before proceeding with definitive treatment of the vascular pathology. Here, the authors demonstrate the utility of using a generously sized temporizing decompressive suboccipital craniectomy to subsequently allow for a more judicious resection of a Spetzler-Martin grade III AVM fed by the right superior cerebellar artery using a sitting supracerebellar infratentorial approach.The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/L195wmw3p_4

Cerebellar Necrosectomy Instead of Suboccipital Decompression: A Suitable Alternative for Patients with Space-Occupying Cerebellar Infarction

Space-occupying cerebellar ischemic strokes (SOCSs) often lead to neurological deterioration and require surgical intervention to release pressure from the posterior fossa. Current guidelines recommend suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) with dural expansion when medical therapy is not sufficient. However, no good-quality evidence is available to support this surgical practice, and the surgical timing and technique both remain controversial. We have described an alternative to SDC, surgical evacuation of infarcted tissue (necrosectomy) and its clinical outcomes. In the present retrospective, single-center study, 34 consecutive patients with SOCS undergoing necrosectomy via osteoplastic craniotomy were included. The patient characteristics and radiological findings were evaluated. To differentiate the effects of age on the functional outcomes, the patients were divided into 2 groups (group I, age ≤60 years; and group II, age >60 years). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Glasgow outcome scale, modified Rankin scale, and Barthel index at discharge and 30 days postoperatively. In our cohort, we observed overall mortality of 21%, with good functional outcomes (Glasgow outcome scale score ≥4) for 76% of the patients. No statistically significant differences in mortality or functional outcomes were observed between the 2 patient groups. Comparing our data with a recent meta-analysis of SDC, the number of adverse events and unfavorable outcome showed equipoise between the 2 treatment modalities. Necrosectomy appears to be a suitable alternative to SDC for SOCS, achieving comparable mortality and functional outcomes. Further trials are necessary to evaluate which surgical technique is more beneficial in the setting of SOCSs.

Fatal central nervous system co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 and tuberculosis in a healthy child

BackgroundCentral and peripheral nervous system symptoms and complications are being increasingly recognized among individuals with pandemic SARS-CoV-2 infections, but actual detection of the virus or its RNA in the central nervous system has rarely been sought or demonstrated. Severe or fatal illnesses are attributed to SARS-CoV-2, generally without attempting to evaluate for alternative causes or co-pathogens.Case presentationA five-year-old girl with fever and headache was diagnosed with acute SARS-CoV-2-associated meningoencephalitis based on the detection of its RNA on a nasopharyngeal swab, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Serial serologic tests for SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA showed seroconversion, consistent with an acute infection. Mental status and brain imaging findings gradually worsened despite antiviral therapy and intravenous dexamethasone. Decompressive suboccipital craniectomy for brain herniation with cerebellar biopsy on day 30 of illness, shortly before death, revealed SARS-CoV-2 RNA in cerebellar tissue using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2019-nCoV Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase-PCR Diagnostic Panel. On histopathology, necrotizing granulomas with numerous acid-fast bacilli were visualized, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA was detected by PCR. Ventricular cerebrospinal fluid that day was negative for mycobacterial DNA. Tracheal aspirate samples for mycobacterial DNA and culture from days 22 and 27 of illness were negative by PCR but grew Mycobacterium tuberculosis after 8 weeks, long after the child’s passing. She had no known exposures to tuberculosis and no chest radiographic findings to suggest it. All 6 family members had normal chest radiographs and negative interferon-γ release assay results. The source of her tuberculous infection was not identified, and further investigations by the local health department were not possible because of the State of Michigan-mandated lockdown for control of SARS-CoV-2 spread.ConclusionThe detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in cerebellar tissue and the demonstration of seroconversion in IgG and IgA assays was consistent with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection of the central nervous infection. However, the cause of death was brain herniation from her rapidly progressive central nervous system tuberculosis. SARS-CoV-2 may mask or worsen occult tuberculous infection with severe or fatal consequences.

Chiari I malformation and pregnancy: a comprehensive review of the literature to address common questions and to guide management

The optimal management of Chiari I malformation during pregnancy remains uncertain. Labor contractions, which increase intracranial pressure, and neuraxial anesthesia both carry the theoretical risk of brainstem herniation given the altered CSF dynamics inherent to the condition. Mode of delivery and planned anesthesia, therefore, require forethought to avoid potentially life-threatening complications. Since the assumed potential risks are significant, we seek to systematically review published literature regarding Chiari I malformation in pregnancy and, therefore, to establish a best practice recommendation based on available evidence. The English-language literature was systematically reviewed from 1991 to 2018 according to PRISMA guidelines to assess all pregnancies reported in patients with Chiari I malformation. After analysis, a total of 34 patients and 35 deliveries were included in this investigation. Additionally, a single case from our institutional experience is presented for illustrative purposes but not included in the statistical analysis. No instances of brain herniation during pregnancy in patients with Chiari I malformation were reported. Cesarean deliveries (51%) and vaginal deliveries (49%) under neuraxial blockade and general anesthesia were both reported as safe and suitable modes of delivery. Across all publications, only one patient experienced a worsening of neurologic symptoms, which was only later discovered to be the result of a previously undiagnosed Chiari I malformation. Several patients underwent decompressive suboccipital craniectomy to treat the Chiari I malformation during the preconception period (31%), during pregnancy (3%), and after birth (6%). Specific data regarding maternal management were not reported for a large number (21) of these patients (60%). Aside from one abortion in our own institutional experience, there was no report of any therapeutic abortion or of adverse fetal outcome. Although devastating maternal complications are frequently feared, very few adverse outcomes have ever been reported in pregnant patients with a Chiari I malformation. The available evidence is, however, rather limited. Based on our survey of available data, we recommend vaginal delivery under neuraxial blockade for truly asymptomatic patients. Furthermore, based on our own experience and physiological conceptual considerations, we recommend limiting maternal Valsalva efforts either via Cesarean delivery under regional or general anesthesia or by choosing assisted vaginal delivery under neuraxial blockade. There is no compelling reason to offer suboccipital decompression for Chiari I malformation during pregnancy. For patients with significant neurologic symptoms prior to conception, decompression prior to pregnancy should be considered.

Evaluation of clinical significance of decompressive suboccipital craniectomy on the prognosis of cerebellar infarction.

Objective: The decision of whether and/or when to treat cerebellar infarction surgically remains controversial. We investigated the effectiveness of decompressive suboccipital craniectomy (DSC) for treating cerebellar infarction and the prognostic factors that affect the surgical results.Methods: From October 2006 to June 2017, a total of 14 consecutive patients (12 men, 2 women; mean±SD age 65±12 years, range 42–84 years) were admitted to our hospital and underwent DSC at the time of admission or during their hospitalization. Inclusion criteria were (1) a level of consciousness below Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) 13, and/or (2) brainstem compression and/or obstructive hydrocephalus caused by brain edema due to cerebellar infarction. Ventricular drainage was performed simultaneously or later, according to the surgeon’s decision.Results: At the 90-day point, 12 of the 14 patients (85.7%) had survived, 10 (71.4%) of whom were independent (modified Rankin scale ≤2). Four (28.6%) were either completely dependent or dead. Comparisons between good and poor prognoses showed that the factors affecting the prognosis were lesions other than the cerebellar infarction (p<0.01) and/or obstructive hydrocephalus (p<0.05).Conclusions: Early DSC should be considered for treating cerebellar infarction in patients with GCS 13 or worse. A poor prognosis is inevitable in patients whose infarction is combined with other location than the cerebellum but in those who already have obstructive hydrocephalus at the time of surgery.

Long-term functional outcome after decompressive suboccipital craniectomy for space-occupying cerebellar infarction

ObjectivesSuboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) is considered the best treatment option in patients with space-occupying cerebellar infarction and clinical signs of deterioration. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term functional outcome in patients one year after SDC for space-occupying cerebellar infarction, and secondly, to determine factors associated with outcome. Patients and methodsAll patients treated with SDC due to space-occupying cerebellar infarction between January 2009 and October 2015 were included in the study. Data was retrospectively collected from patient records, CT/MRI scans and surgical protocols. Long-term functional outcome was determined by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and mRS ≥ 4 was defined as unfavorable outcome. ResultsTwenty-two patients (16 male, 6 female) were included in the study. Median age was 53 years. Nine patients were treated with external ventricular drainage as an initial treatment attempt prior to SDC. Median time from symptom onset (stroke ictus) to initiation of the SDC surgery was 48 h (IQR 28–99 hours) and median GCS before SDC was 8 (IQR 5–10). At follow up, median mRS was 3 (IQR 2–6). Outcome was favorable (mRS 0–3) in 12 patients and unfavorable in 10 (3 with major disability, 7 dead). Brainstem infarction and bilateral cerebellar infarction were associated with unfavorable outcome. ConclusionsIn this small study, functional long-term outcome in patients with space-occupying cerebellar infarction treated by SDC was acceptable and comparable to previously published results (favorable outcome in 54% of patients). Brainstem infarction and bilateral cerebellar infarction were associated with unfavorable outcome.

Conus Medullaris Arteriovenous Malformation Presenting with Acute Dysphagia and Intractable Hiccups

Conus medullaris arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare spinal vascular malformations presenting most frequently with features of myelopathy (Foix-Alajounine syndrome), radiculopathy, bowel/bladder dysfunction, or acute spinal hemorrhage (Coup de poignard of Michon) causing profound neurological deficit. Here we present the case of a young patient with progressive dysphagia and intractable hiccups as a rare first presentation symptom of later verified conus medullaris AVM. A 21-year-old male patient presented with acute onset of dysphagia and persistent hiccups. His magnetic resonance imaging of the spine demonstrated a lesion at the T11 and T12 levels with an associated holocord syrinx and syringobulbia to the level of the medulla. The patient underwent a decompressive suboccipital craniectomy and C1 (atlas) laminectomy with wide myelotomy of the medulla followed by T11 and T12 laminectomy and AVM reduction. Two days after partial AVM occlusion the patient developed transient worsening of his symptoms. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging showed recurrence of dilatation of the central canal. A syringo-subarachnoid shunt was sited at the level of the previous myelotomy of the medulla, after which his neurological symptoms resolved completely. This is the first case report in the English literature to date of a conus AVM presenting with intractable hiccups. These are extremely rare sporadic vascular malformations, and although their natural history is poorly understood, symptomatic patients generally deteriorate, culminating in severe disability. Management requires a multimodality approach including combined endovascular and microsurgical treatment. The patient in our case made a full recovery confirmed at 2-year follow-up.

Suboccipital Decompressive Craniectomy for Cerebellar Infarction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Suboccipital decompressive craniectomy (SDC) for cerebellar infarction has been traditionally performed with minimal high-quality evidence. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate the impact of SDC on functional outcomes, mortality, and adverse events in patients with cerebellar infarcts. A systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Our primary outcome was the proportion of patients with moderate-severe disability after SDC. Secondary outcomes included mortality and adverse events. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine the roles of age, preoperative neurologic status, external ventricular drain insertion, and debridement of infarcted tissue on SDC outcomes. Eleven studies (with 283 patients) met our inclusion criteria. The pooled event rate for moderate-severe disability was 28% (95% confidence interval [CI], 20%-37%) and for mortality, it was 20% (95% CI, 12%-31%). The estimated overall rate of adverse events for SDC was 23% (95% CI, 14%-35%). Sensitivity analysis found less mortality with mean age <60 years, higher rates of concomitant external ventricular drain insertion, and debridement of infarcted tissue. Several factors were identified for heterogeneity between studies, including follow-up time, outcomes scale, extent of infarction, and other neuroimaging features. The best available evidence for SDC is based on retrospective observational studies. SDC for cerebellar infarction is associated with better outcomes compared with decompressive surgery for hemispheric infarctions. Lack of standardized reporting methods for SDC is a considerable drawback to the development of a better understanding of the impact of this surgery on patient outcomes.