A small but significant number of patients appear to improve clinically following cranioplasty. The so-called syndrome of the trephined may be more common than had been previously appreciated.

Substantial physical recovery beyond 18 months after decompressive craniectomy for severe TBI was not observed; however, many patients appeared to have recalibrated their expectations regarding what they believed to be an acceptable quality of life.

If the use of bifrontal decompressive craniectomies continues to increase it is important that those involved in the rehabilitation process are familiar with this rare condition. Early recognition is important so that patients can receive timely intervention and it also avoids valuable health resources being allocated to patients who cannot receive maximal benefit.

No abstract

GPs should be aware of barriers to statin therapy and useful approaches to overcome them. They could be supported by guideline recommendations that are more closely aligned to primary care as well as comprehensible patient information about lipid-lowering therapy. Future studies, exploring patients' specific needs and involving them in improving adherence behaviour, are recommended.