Cranioplasty prognosis

Cranioplasty prognosis can be assessed across several domains reflecting both clinical effectiveness and patient-centered results. The procedure, performed after decompressive craniectomy or to repair skull defects, has neurological, functional, cosmetic, and complication-related implications.

• Improvement in cognitive function, consciousness, and motor performance.
• Restoration of cerebral perfusion, metabolism, and CSF dynamics.
• Common assessment tools: NIHSS, neuropsychological testing.

• Tools:
  • Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS)
  • Modified Rankin Scale (mRS)
  • Functional Independence Measure (FIM)
• Reflects autonomy, activities of daily living, and care needs.

• Restoration of body image, self-esteem, and social reintegration.
• Particularly relevant in younger patients.
• Evaluated via PROMs and patient interviews.

• Infection (5–20%): more common with alloplastic materials or early cranioplasty.
• Bone flap resorption: especially in pediatric and autologous bone cases.
• Other risks: seizures, hematomas, hydrocephalus, implant migration.

• Includes mobility, communication, cognition, emotional well-being.
• Tools: EQ-5D, SF-36, disease-specific QoL instruments.