International Journal of Science and Research
Decompressive Craniectomy in Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Prospective Observational Study
By Gatte Banu Venkata Sivaram and G Ram Balaji Naik.
Abstract
Background
Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is an important surgical option for selected patients with traumatic brain injury and refractory intracranial hypertension. Outcomes are influenced by age, neurological status, pupillary response, timing of surgery, associated injuries and radiological factors.
Methods
This prospective observational study included 136 patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury who underwent decompressive craniectomy at Government General Hospital, Kurnool Medical College, between March 2024 and March 2026. Patients aged 12-70 years with admission GCS 4-13 and radiological evidence of raised intracranial pressure/mass effect were included. Clinical, radiological and operative variables were recorded. Functional outcome was assessed using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), with GOS 4-5 considered favourable and GOS 1-3 unfavourable as specified in the thesis.