Paradoxical herniation after decompressive craniectomy provoked by lumbar puncture or ventriculoperitoneal shunting

Abstract

Lumbar puncture and ventriculoperitoneal shunting carry substantial risk when performed in a patient after decompressive craniectomy and before cranioplasty. When the condition that prompts decompression (such as brain swelling associated with stroke or trauma) requires time to resolve, risk is associated with lumbar puncture performed ≥ 1 month after decompressive craniectomy.