# Challenges in Cranioplasty: A Case Report on Delayed Reconstruction and Postoperative Complications

**Authors:** Hussein Abourahma, Sayf Adas, Hiba Ahmad, Jessica Caushi, Tara Salimi, Tye Barber

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80546 · Cureus · 2025-03-13

## TL;DR

This case report highlights the risks of delayed cranioplasty, showing how it can lead to infections, neurological issues, and bone flap resorption.

## Contribution

The paper presents a clinical case emphasizing the importance of timely cranioplasty to prevent postoperative complications.

## Key findings

- Delayed cranioplasty led to recurrent infections and neurological deficits.
- Bone flap resorption occurred due to prolonged deferral of treatment.
- Early reconstruction is linked to better cerebral protection and outcomes.

## Abstract

Autologous cranioplasty is a crucial surgical intervention following decompressive craniectomy that is aimed at restoring cranial integrity and optimizing patient recovery. This report presents the case of a 59-year-old woman who experienced a substantial delay in cranioplasty due to unforeseen medical complications which contributed to the decision to defer treatment. The patient subsequently encountered a series of adverse events, including recurrent infections, neurological deficits, and bone flap resorption. This case underscores the importance of timely cranioplasty in minimizing complications and improving patient outcomes. Early reconstruction can enhance cerebral protection, improve neurological function, and reduce the risk of adverse events.

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** neurological deficits (MESH:D009461), infections (MESH:D007239), Postoperative Complications (MESH:D011183)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

2 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11993844/full.md

## References

7 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11993844/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11993844