Optimal timing of cranioplasty post-decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain injury: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and overview of ongoing trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The optimal timing of cranioplasty (CP) following decompressive craniectomy (DC) for the management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains debated. Prior studies comparing early CP (EC) and late CP (LC) report conflicting outcomes, compounded by inconsistent timing thresholds and limited attention to effect modifiers such as implant material.

Objective

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing outcomes of EC (≤ 90 days) versus LC (> 90 days) after DC for TBI, with particular evaluation of ultra-EC (< 35 days) and implant material.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL were electronically searched from inception to April 2025, supplemented by manual screening of references and grey literature. Randomised and observational studies comparing E

SUBMITTER: Thamilmaran A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12789150 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature