Prognostic value of electroencephalography and evoked potentials in the early course of malignant middle cerebral artery infarction

Objective: Space-occupying brain edema may lead to a malignant course in patients with large middle cerebral artery infarction. Decompressive hemicraniectomy has to be initiated early to prevent further tissue damage. Methods: In this retrospective study we analyzed electroencephalography and evoked potentials, obtained within 24 hours after onset of stroke, in 22 patients suffering from a large middle cerebral artery infarct. Results: Our findings indicate a prognostic value of electroencephalography and evoked potentials: The absence of delta activity and the presence of theta and fast beta frequencies within…