Citation

Badke GL, Araujo JLV, Miura FK, Guirado VMP, Saade N, Paiva ALC, Avelar TM, Pedrozo CAG, Veiga JCE. Arq. Neuropsiquiatr. 2018; 76(4): 257-264.

Affiliation

Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Associacao Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquitria)

DOI

10.1590/0004-282x20180016

PMID

29742246

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Decompressive craniectomy is a procedure required in some cases of traumatic brain injury (TBI). This manuscript evaluates the direct costs and outcomes of decompressive craniectomy for TBI in a developing country and describes the epidemiological profile.

METHODS: A retrospective study was performed using a five-year neurosurgical database, taking a sample of patients with TBI who underwent decompressive craniectomy. Several variables were considered and a formula was developed for calculating the total cost.

RESULTS: Most patients had multiple brain lesions and the majority (69.0%) developed an infectious complication. The general mortality index was 68.8%. The total cost was R$ 2,116,960.22 (US$ 661,550.06) and the mean patient cost was R$ 66,155.00 (US$ 20,673.44).

CONCLUSIONS: Decompressive craniectomy for TBI is an expensive procedure that is also associated with high morbidity and mortality. This was the first study performed in a developing country that aimed to evaluate the direct costs. Prevention measures should be a priority.

Language: en