How's a depressed skull fracture treated?

Conservative or surg: Treatment for a skull fracture depends on the severity of the fracture and the presence of any associated brain injury. Treatment of uncomplicated skull fractures may include wound care, cold compresses, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain. Treatment for an injury to the brain may require corticosteroid medications, medications for seizures, or surgery.

Surgery or nothing: As a rule of thumb - if the amount of depression is more than the thickness of the skull then the fracture should be elevated. In cosmetic areas, e.g. The forehead where any amount of depression stands out the indication for surgery can be earlier. Open wounds over the fracture and bone injuring the underlying brain also require surgery.