IntroductionCranioplasty is a surgical technique applied for the reconstruction of the skullcap removed during decompressive craniectomy (DC). Cranioplasty improves rehabilitation from a motor and cognitive perspective. However, it may increase the possibility of postoperative complications, such as seizures and infections. Timing of cranioplasty is therefore crucial even though literature is controversial. In this study, we compared motor and cognitive effects of early cranioplasty after DC and assess the optimal timing to perform it.MethodsA literature research was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. We selected studies including at least one of the following test: Mini‐Mental State Examination, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test immediate and 30‐min delayed recall, Digit Span Test, Glasgow Coma Scale, Glasgow Outcome Scale, Coma Recovery Scale‐Revised, Level of Cognitive Functioning Scale, Functional Independence Measure, and Barthel Index.ResultsSix articles and two systematic reviews were included in the present study. Analysis of changes in pre‐ and postcranioplasty scores showed that an early procedure (within 90 days from decompressive craniectomy) is more effective in improving motor functions (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.51 [0.05; 0.97], p‐value = 0.03), whereas an early procedure did not significantly improve neither MMSE score (SMD = 0.06 [−0.49; 0.61], p‐value = 0.83) nor memory functions (SMD = −0.63 [−0.97; −0.28], p‐value < 0.001). No statistical significance emerged when we compared studies according to the timing from DC.ConclusionsIt is believed that cranioplasty performed from 3 to 6 months after DC may significantly improve both motor and cognitive recovery.

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Introduction: Disorder of consciousness is a clinical condition due to severe brain damage. The impact of consciousness disorder on the family is characterized by a combination of biopsychosocial factors. The burden and suffering perceived by caregivers can cause psychological distress characterized by anxiety, depression, and physical illness.The aim of the study was to investigate the interaction between family dynamics and caregiver burden. Methods:We enlisted 35 caregivers of subjects in a minimally conscious state. Two skilled psychologists administered the Olson's Adaptability and Family Cohesion Assessment Scale and the Novak's Burden Inventory Caregiver Scale to assess family function and family burden, respectively. Results:We found that the caregiver burden correlates with the family adaptability and cohesion, as well as with enmeshment, rigidity, and disengagement. Conclusion:Findings suggest that the traumatic event does not affect the family structure. Families are able to maintain a balanced functioning and control distress.

Chronic pain can have a devastating impact and lead to patient isolation. Many people with chronic pain are predisposed to anxiety-depressant symptoms, due to a lower quality life. The aim of the study is to demonstrate how neuromodulation methods, can encourage the reduction of chronic pain and an improvement in the quality of life, therefore advancing the restoration of psychological well-being. We involved 50 patients with a diagnosis of pain that not respond to traditional pharmacological therapies. Interventions: All subject had depression and anxiety symptoms and a low-quality life. We used the spinal cord stimulation treatment and a psychological evaluation for assessment of depression-anxiety symptomatology and the level of quality life. We observed a significant difference in physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, general health perceptions, vitality, social functioning, role limitations due to emotional problems and mental health. Our study affirms that the perception of chronic pain has a great impact on the perception of psychological well-being, quality of life, and the performance of normal daily social and professional activities.

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