Apollo Hospitals Apollo Hospitals

    Send An Enquiry

    Home Neurology Decompressive Craniectomy Stroke Surgery

    Decompressive Craniectomy Stroke Surgery

    Decompressive craniectomy stroke surgery involves the removal of a portion of a skull due to swelling. The swelling can be due to injury, and pressure buildup can cause further damage to the brain. The procedure permits the swollen brain to expand without constricting the effect of the skull.

    At Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, our neurosurgeons are experts in carrying out decompressive craniectomy surgery for patients with stroke, traumatic brain injuries, or other conditions that cause dangerous brain swelling.

    What Happens During the Surgery?

    A decompressive craniectomy stroke surgery is usually performed as an emergency procedure and comprehensive imaging and blood tests are carried out before the surgery. Anaesthesia is administered before the procedure, and the head region is shaved and cleaned. An incision is made, followed by drilling to make holes in the skull. A bone saw is then used to cut and remove the bone that blocks the swelling brain. The wound is then closed with stitches.

    The bone taken from the skull is usually stored in a freezer and may be replaced once the individual recovers. If the bone is not in good condition, they might replace the bone with synthetic bone or bone made with titanium.

    Best Neuro Sciences Doctors in Jubilee Hills

    Apollo Doctor

    Dr Sudhir Kumar

    MBBS MD (Internal Medicine) DM (Neurology)
    25+ YRS
    Neuro Sciences
    English, Bengali, Hindi, Telugu
    Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
    Apollo Doctor

    Dr Tarang K Vora

    MBBS, MRCS, DNB Neurosurgery, Fellowship Paediatric Neurosurgery
    12+ YRS
    Neuro Sciences
    English, Hindi, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam
    Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
    Apollo Doctor

    Dr Madhuri Khilari

    DM Neurology (JIPMER), PDF Epilepsy (NIMHANS)
    12+ YRS
    Neuro Sciences
    Hindi, Telugu, English, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, Hindi
    Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

    Neuro Sciences Blogs

    View All

    Patient Testimonials

    FAQ's

    The usual time frame for a decompressive craniectomy stroke surgery is between 3-5 hours. However, this can vary depending on patient factors.

    Since decompressive craniectomy stroke surgery is done in critical conditions and as a medical emergency, the duration of recovery can be quite long. The patient may remain unconscious for days or weeks, and can even remain in a vegetative state or coma. Post-surgery, a custom-fitted helmet may be worn to protect the brain from further injury, which can remain for several weeks or months. Our neurologists will guide you on the expected recovery time and necessary care.

    Decompressive craniectomy stroke surgery, although considered a life-saving procedure, may carry substantial risks. These can include, damage to brain blood vessels, severe brain haemorrhage, brain injury from lack of oxygen, brain infection, and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Sometimes allergic reactions to anaesthesia, as well as high blood pressure and breathing difficulties may also occur.
    Book ProHealth Book Appointment

    Request A Call Back

    Close
    © Copyright 2025. Apollo Hospitals Group. All Rights Reserved.
    phone 040-69321000 Book Health Check-up Book Health Check-up Book Appointment

    Request A Call Back

    Close