Long-term outcome of decompressive hemicraniectomy in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction: A prospective observational study

Background: Malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Decompressive hemicraniectomy (DH) reduces mortality significantly but evidence for long-term functional benefit is sparse and contradictory. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients with malignant MCA infarction were prospectively enrolled. 36 (60%) patients underwent DH and 24 (40%) patients received best medical...