Surgical decompression for space-occupying hemispheric infarction

Abstract

Patients with a hemispheric infarct and massive space-occupying edema formation have a poor prognosis. Mortality rates of about 80% have been described, despite maximal medical therapy on an intensive care unit.

The aim of the research presented in this thesis was to investigate the benefit of decompressive surgery in patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction who deteriorate as a result of space-occupying brain edema.

In part 1, experimental studies on this subject are described.

In part 2, preparations for and preliminary results of the ongoing randomized Hemicraniectomy After MCA infarction with Life-threatening Edema Trial (HAMLET) are presented.