Journal of neurosurgery
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Journal of neurosurgery · Oct 2012
ReviewThe role of decompressive craniectomy in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.
Studies on the role of decompressive craniectomy for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in the literature are scanty. Randomized trials face a lot of drawbacks, including ethical issues. In this article the authors discuss their experience with this procedure for CVST and review the available literature. ⋯ Decompressive craniectomy in a selected cohort of patients had a good outcome in a majority of the patients: 26 of 34 in this study had a GOS score of 4 or 5. In this series, which is the largest in the available literature, the authors review their experience and recommend usage of this procedure in selected patients.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Oct 2012
ReviewDecompressive hemicraniectomy for malignant middle cerebral artery territory infarction: is life worth living?
Although decompressive hemicraniectomy has been shown to reduce death and improve functional outcome following malignant middle cerebral artery territory infarction, there is ongoing debate as to whether surgery should be routinely performed, considering the very high rates of disability and functional dependence in survivors. Through a systematic review of the literature, the authors sought to determine the outcome from a patient's perspective. ⋯ Despite high rates of physical disability and depression, the vast majority of patients are satisfied with life and do not regret having undergone surgery.
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Journal of neurosurgery · Oct 2012
ReviewDecompressive hemicraniectomy for malignant middle cerebral artery territory infarction: is life worth living?
Although decompressive hemicraniectomy has been shown to reduce death and improve functional outcome following malignant middle cerebral artery territory infarction, there is ongoing debate as to whether surgery should be routinely performed, considering the very high rates of disability and functional dependence in survivors. Through a systematic review of the literature, the authors sought to determine the outcome from a patient's perspective. ⋯ Despite high rates of physical disability and depression, the vast majority of patients are satisfied with life and do not regret having undergone surgery.