Early Decompressive Craniectomy in Acute Cerebral Infarctions

Abstract

Objectives: Acute cerebral ischemic stroke resulting from occlusion of major arteries constitutes a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. Early decompressive craniectomy reduces mortality and enhances the proportion of patients achieving favorable functional outcomes. Methods: Data from patients who underwent decompressive surgery for acute cerebral ischemic stroke at our center between January 2018 and January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The demographic data, along with neuro- logical outcomes at 6 months, mortality, and morbidity rates, were analyzed of the patients to assess the role of early decompressive craniectomy in acute cerebral infarctions. Results: A total of 75 patients, 24 females and 51 males, who underwent decompressive surgery with a diagnosis of acute cerebral ischemia, were included in the study. Early surgery was defined as surgery performed within the first 72 hours of ischemia. It was observed that patients underwent early surgery had higher survival rates (p<0.036). Conclusion: Decompressive cranictomy is a significant treatment option for malignant stroke. The results of this study suggest that early decompressive surgery could be an effective treatment method in increasing the survival chances of patients with acute ischemic stroke.