Rapid development and resolution of sinking skin flap syndrome in a patient following decompressive craniectomy

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Case Report

Author Details : Debabrata Chakraborty*, Jayanta Roy, Abhijit Das, Sadanand Dey

Volume : 5, Issue : 4, Year : 2019

Article Page : 254-256

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijn.2019.042

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Abstract

Sinking skin flap syndrome (SSS) is a serious complication following decompressive craniectomy (DC).
Although CSF hypovolemia and exposure to atmospheric pressure have been attributed as causative factors,
the definite etiologies remain elusive. We present a case where a patient had a rapid deterioration without
any warning sign following a diagnostic and therapeutic lumbar puncture after DC. The patient had rapid
fluctuation of symptoms with change of position. She was managed conservatively and finally achieved
a full neurologic recovery without cranioplasty. This case report shows the heterogeneity of SSS and that
cranioplasty may not be required in acute cases.

Keywords: CSF diversion, Cerebral herniation, Hemicraniectomy

How to cite : Chakraborty D , Roy J , Das A , Dey S , Rapid development and resolution of sinking skin flap syndrome in a patient following decompressive craniectomy. IP Indian J Neurosci 2019;5(4):254-256

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