What does life look like after craniectomy?

    Craniectomy is a surgery to remove a piece of the skull. Life after craniectomy varies from person to person. Some people return to many of their usual activities, while others need more help with daily life.

    You may need rehabilitation after craniectomy. Your ability to do daily activities may improve as you recover. Recovery may continue over time.

    Until the opening in your skull is repaired, you'll need to protect that part of your head from injury. You may need to wear a helmet. At follow-up visits, your healthcare team may talk with you about cranioplasty. This is surgery to repair the opening in your skull.

    1. Beucler N. Indications and scientific support for supratentorial unilateral decompressive craniectomy for different subgroups of patients: A scoping review. Acta Neurochirurgica. 2024; doi:10.1007/s00701-024-06277-7.
    2. Luo X, et al. Decompressive craniectomy for patients with malignant infarction of the middle cerebral artery: A pooled analysis of two randomized controlled trials. Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases. 2024; doi:10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2024.107719.
    3. Gati A, et al. Timing and outcomes of cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy: A systematic review of neurological recovery, complications, and predictive factors. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2026; doi:10.3390/jcm15082813.
    4. Pang SSY, et al. Patient-specific 3D-printed helmet for post-craniectomy defect — A case report. 3D Printing in Medicine. 2022; doi:10.1186/s41205-022-00131-1.

    FAQ-80011947


    Thank a researcher today

    Mayo Clinic researchers drive discoveries that improve detection, diagnosis and treatment. Your quick message to them means so much.