Abstract: Objective To sum up the experience of decompressive surgery for the acute massive hemispheric infarction to determine its beneficial effects.MethodsRetrospectively study 6 patients receiving early decompressive craniotomy because of deterioration after infarction.Results 5 patients survived,4 of them recovered to the good level of daily activity (Barthel index ≥60) one year after rehabilitation.One senile patient died of pulmonary infection.ConclusionThe decompressive surgery is an effective method on the survival and functionary recovery for the patients with deteriorating massive cerebral infarction.

Key words: cerebral infarction, decompressive surgery, treatment, rehabilitation