Does the use of DuraSeal in head and spinal surgeries reduce the risk of cerebrospinal fluid leaks and complications when compared to conventional methods of dura mater closure?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula is a common neurosurgical complication, occurring in 1% to 27% of cases. The main clinical manifestations are postural headache, nausea, dizziness, photophobia, and tinnitus. This condition may be associated with inadequate wound healing and infection, meningitis, and pseudomeningocele, factors that increase patient morbidity and mortality. Despite the limitations, hermetic closure of the dura mater has been recommended for the prevention and treatment of CSF fistula. In recent years, techniques have been developed to reinforce the site of the dura mater closure, such as additional suture, autologous tissue grafts, fibrin sealants, and collagen sponges. DuraSeal is a dura mater sealant consisting of polyethylene glycol hydrogel (PEG hydrogel), to be applied at the site of suture, and has been indicated for head and spinal surgery with opening of the dura mater.