Effects of Decompressive Craniectomy on the Changes of Brain Edema, BBB and CBF after Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rats

Aim:To explore the mechanisms of the protective effects of decompressive craniectomy on focal cerebral ischemia by investigating the changes of brain edema, BBB disruption and CBF.Methods:Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by using an endovascular occlusion technique focused on left middle cerebral artery (MCA). Decompressive craniectomy was performed at insult side 6 h after ischemia. Brain edema and BBB disruption was detected at day 3 and 7 after surgery, and the changes of CBF in penumbra and core were also measured before and after decompressive procedure. Results:CBF in penumbra was increased significantly after decompressive craniectomy. Brain water content was decreased markedly and approached to normal level at day 7 and BBB disruption was significantly improved at day 3 after decompressive surgery. Conclusion:Decompressive craniectomy has protective effects on focal cerebral ischemia by the mechanisms of improving cerebral perfusion, preventing the BBB disruption and alleviating brain edema.