Large middle cerebral artery (MCA) and panhemispheric stroke represent a minority of cerebral ischemic events, yet they are responsible for a disproportionate share of morbidity and mortality. Malignant infarction with formation of cerebral edema is a common cause for secondary neurologic deterioration. Despite intensive medical and surgical care, prognosis is often poor and mortality may be as high as 60-80%. Surgical intervention can reduce that mortality compared to medical therapy alone, but necessitates a careful exploration of patient characteristics for acceptable outcomes.
Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.