Abstract
While the indications for surgery in extra- and subdural hematomas are relatively established, the role, timing and the indications for the surgical treatment of cerebral contusions remains nebulous. The pathophysiology of brain edema and the resultant increase in intracranial pressure due to brain contusions is discussed. The role and limitations of early evacuation of contused brain are considered in this article.

Keywords
cerebral contusions, cerebral edema, decompressive surgery