Decompressive hemicraniectomy for malignant middle cerebral artery infarction. Report of two cases
Mellado T, P.; Castillo F, L.; Campos P, M.; Bugedo T, G.; Dougnac L, A.; Andresen H, M.
Revista Medica de Chile 133(4): 447-452
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-9887 PMID: 15953952 Document Number: 594275
Malignant middle cerebral territory infarction represents 5 to 10% of all brain infarctions. Its mortality is 80%, due to brain herniation and it is not reduced by medical treatment. Decompressive hemicraniectomy reduces mortality to 12%, and the subsequent quality of life of patients is acceptable. We report two male patients aged 61 and 54 years, with a malignant middle cerebral territory infarction who were treated with decompressive hemicraniectomy. After two years of follow up, both patients are self-sufficient and live at home with their families.