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Decompressive Craniectomy in Pregnant Women
Adrián Fernández García1, Herbert Daniel Jiménez Zapata1, Mercedes C de Lera Alfonso2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Valladolid University Hospital, Valladolid, Spain.
Summary
Decompressive craniectomy (DC) for malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction is rare in young adults, especially pregnant women. This case highlights successful DC in a pregnant patient, leading to a healthy delivery and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction is uncommon in patients under 40.
- Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a critical intervention for severe cases.
- Pregnancy presents unique challenges for managing MCA infarction.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old pregnant woman (24th week) experienced a severe right MCA infarction.
- The patient required emergency DC to manage increased intracranial pressure.
- The fetus was delivered healthy, and the mother later underwent cranioplasty.
Findings:
- This case represents a rare instance of successful DC in a pregnant patient with MCA infarction.
- Literature review indicates limited published cases of DC in pregnant women.
- The management strategy prioritized maternal survival and fetal well-being.
Implications:
- Highlights the feasibility and potential success of DC in select pregnant patients with MCA infarction.
- Emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary care involving neurology, neurosurgery, and obstetrics.
- Contributes to the limited body of evidence regarding surgical interventions for stroke during pregnancy.
