Abstract TP132: Decompressive Hemicraniectomy Improves Survival in Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Stroke Patients with Hemorhagic Conversion Admitted with a High Glasgow Coma Scale

Decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) has been shown to improve clinical outcome in cases of malignant infarct but its indications have not been well classified. This study focuses on patients who suffered malignant middle cerebral artery (MMCA) infarct with subsequent hemorrhagic conversion and were admitted with mild brain injury (initial Glasgow Coma Scale≥13). Survival rates of MMCA infarct patients with hemorrhagic conversion who underwent DHC were compared with those treated with medical management only. Hypothesis: Patients admitted for MMCA infarct with a Glasgow Coma Scale ≥13 who develop hemorrhagic conversion have improved survivability when DHC is performed. Methods: Retrospective review was performed on all cases consulted for neurological surgery from 2007-2012 at University Hospital. Patients were selected on the criteria of MMCA infarct on admission with subsequent development of hemorrhage conversion. Patients who underwent DHC had to have the hemorrhagic conversion prior to surgery for inc...