title: Use of decompressive craniectomy after severe head trauma.
abstract: Ten percent of head injuries quality as "severe," requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. This level I trauma center uses an aggressive approach to treatment of severe head injuries and, when indicated, intervenes with decompressive craniectomy. This article explains decompressive craniectomy, including indications, procedures, and protocols. The case studies presented highlight two patients with profound head injuries. Additionally, cranioplasty replacement of autograft flap is explained and discussed.
authors.affiliation: Legacy Emanuel Hospital and Health Center, Portland, Ore., USA.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Wick
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Wade
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Rohrer
authors.forename: O
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: O'Neill
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000145:classification / Q000601:surgery*; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013527:Perioperative Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012886:Skull / Q000601:surgery* / Q000637:transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013781:Texas