Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the impact on patients' outcome of decompressive craniectomy with duraplasty in case of increased intracranial pressure after severe traumatic brain injury. Materials and Methods Outcome was measured by GOS, Barthel index, and Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
In addition, professional ability and the need for care were evaluated. A total of 15 cases after severe traumatic brain injury were included.
Endpoint of follow-up was at 6 months after injury. Results Overall outcome was unfavourable, mean Barthel index was 46.5 (range 0-100), mean FIM score 67.5 (18-126).
Only 3 cases reached a condition completely independent of care. None of the patients regained professional ability.
Conclusions Despite treatment with decompressive craniectomy, overall outcome in severe traumatic brain injury remains unfavourable.