Case Series of Patients Undergoing Hemicraniectomy After Thrombolysis for Stroke
Author Information
Author(s): A. Williams, M. Sittampalam, N. Barua, A. Mohd Nor
Primary Institution: Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK
Hypothesis
Does prior use of thrombolysis increase the risk of complications during subsequent decompressive hemicraniectomy?
Conclusion
Thrombolytic therapy does not contraindicate subsequent decompressive hemicraniectomy in well-selected patients with non-dominant hemisphere strokes.
Supporting Evidence
- Both patients underwent thrombolysis and subsequently decompressive hemicraniectomy without complications.
- Patients had acceptable psychological and physical outcomes post-surgery.
- Neither patient experienced intra-operative complications related to prior thrombolysis.
Takeaway
Doctors can safely perform surgery on some stroke patients who have received clot-busting drugs without worrying about extra bleeding risks.
Methodology
Retrospective review of clinical and surgical outcomes in patients treated with thrombolysis followed by hemicraniectomy.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may exist as both patients were young and had non-dominant hemisphere strokes.
Limitations
The study is based on only two cases, which limits the ability to generalize findings.
Participant Demographics
Two patients, aged 51 and 57, both right-handed, with no significant past medical history.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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