Decompressive craniectomy in adults with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Critical care and resuscitation : journal of the Australasian Academy of Critical Care Medicine·December 1, 2026·PMID 42893097

Why it matters

Decompressive craniectomy is a high-stakes intervention for refractory intracranial hypertension after traumatic brain injury, yet its impact on survival and functional recovery remains uncertain. This meta-analysis provides pooled evidence that DC does not improve neurological outcomes and may increase survival with severe disability, informing risk-benefit discussions and patient selection in neurocritical care.