Risk Factors for Hydrocephalus After Decompressive Craniectomy

Abstract

Background: Decompressive craniectomy is a life-saving neurosurgical procedure that is performed to interrupt the pathophysiological processes associated with intracranial hypertension. This retrospective study aims to identify risk factors related to the development of hydrocephalus after decompressive craniectomy. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 184 patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022. The analysis included various risk factors, including initial diagnostic parameters, technical aspects of the operation, and postoperative complications. Results: From the analysis, we found that the incidence of subdural hygroma, blood contamination of the ventricular system, and postoperative infectious complications are associated with an increased risk of developing hydrocephalus. At the same time, we found that some technical parameters of the operation, such as the size of the decompressive craniectomy, do not significantly affect the development of hydrocephalus. Conclusions: Identification of risk factors associated with the development of hydrocephalus after decompressive craniectomy helps intensively monitor such patients. The result is a reduction in the incidence of hydrocephalus and better management of its eventual occurrence.