Background Post-traumatic hydrocephalus (PTH) and contralateral subdural effusion (cSDE) are common complications after decompressive craniectomy (DC) in severe traumatic brain injury. However, their concurrent occurrence poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study aims to analyze the clinical features, radiological progression, and treatment outcomes of this condition. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 436 patients with severe traumatic brain injury who underwent DC at Beijing Tia