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Use of Decompressive Craniectomy After Severe Head Trauma
Author(s) -
Wick Jane,
Wade James,
Rohrer Daniel,
O'Neill Oisin
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
aorn journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 43
eISSN - 1878-0369
pISSN - 0001-2092
DOI - 10.1016/s0001-2092(06)62463-0
Subject(s) - decompressive craniectomy , cranioplasty , medicine , head trauma , surgery , head (geology) , head injury , traumatic brain injury , skull , geomorphology , psychiatry , geology
Ten percent of head injuries qualify 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. AORN J 69 (March 1999) 517–529.