Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair Research Articles

Development and validation of a preclinical model for training and assessment of cerebrospinal fluid leak repair in endoscopic skull base surgery.

Achieving an effective endoscopic skull base reconstruction in case of large dural defects requires specific training and can be extremely challenging. The aim of this study was to describe the development and validation of a preclinical model for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair, which can be used for training and to test the mechanical efficacy of endoscopic skull base reconstruction. Eleven fresh-frozen cadaver heads were dissected. A catheter was inserted in the subdural space via a cervical access, which was sealed with mastic; a vertical graduated tube connected to the catheter measured intracranial pressure (ICP), while stained water was injected intracranially. After endoscopic skull base reconstruction was performed, an expert surgeon assessed its efficacy. ICP was then gradually increased until a leak was evident and CSF leak pressure value was recorded. The correlation between subjective and quantitative evaluations was investigated through Pearson and Spearman correlation tests. The model was successfully tested in 11 specimens. A single, large dural defect was created in each model (transplanum-transtuberculum = 4; transplanum-transtuberculum-transsellar = 3; transclival = 3; transcribriform-transplanum = 1). Skull base reconstruction always comprised a rigid buttress with temporal fascia and/or fat. The CSF leak pressure ranged from 4 to 110 cmH2 O. The correlation between expert subjective and quantitative assessment of skull base reconstruction mechanical efficacy was high (r = 0.7; rs = 0.7; p = 0.010 and p = 0.006, respectively). This preclinical model is simple, easily reproducible, and effective in simulating an intraoperative leak and objectively measures the CSF leak pressure point of a skull base reconstruction.

Trans-mastoid approach for cerebrospinal fluid leak repair.

To describe the technique and discuss the advantages and outcomes of the trans-mastoid approach (TMA) for temporal bone cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. TMA for CSF leak repair is an alternative to middle cranial fossa approach (MCFA) with less morbidity and good outcomes. Persistent CSF leak in the temporal bone whether idiopathic, congenital or acquired, is an indication for surgery. TMA is a valid option for surgery, competing with MCFA in selected cases. Surgical technique consists of a standard mastoidectomy, exposure of the osteodural defect, and repairing it using multiple layers in an inlay and overlay fashion. Outcomes show low recurrence and complication rates with good hearing results. However, long-term follow-up should be made, as recurrences can be delayed.

Differential Clinical Presentation, Intraoperative Management Strategies, and Surgical Outcomes After Endoscopic Endonasal Treatment of Cystic Sellar Masses

Cystic sellar masses (CSMs) pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with subtotal cyst wall resection, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair, and disease recurrence. Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) interpretation often cannot reliably differentiate CSMs, mandating adaptable intraoperative strategies. We reviewed our diagnostic and therapeutic experience after endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs) for CSMs. A retrospective record review of patients with CSM managed via EEA at the University of Southern California from 2011 to 2018 was conducted. Patient demographics, preoperative characteristics, surgical details, pathologic findings, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Analysis included 47 patients (mean age, 43.2 years); of these, 78.7% were women. Preoperative symptoms included headache (76.6%) and vision loss (42.6%). Histologically verified sellar pathology included 27 Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) (57.4%), 17 cystic pituitary adenomas (CPAs) (36.2%), 2 arachnoid cysts (4.3%), and 1 xanthogranuloma (2.1%). Twelve patients (70.6%) with CPAs underwent complete resection and 5 (29.4%) underwent subtotal resection. All 27 patients with RCC and 2 patients with arachnoid cyst underwent complete fenestration and drainage. One xanthogranuloma was completely resected. There were 14 intraoperative (29.8%) and 4 postoperative CSF leaks (8.5%). Headaches, vision, and endocrinopathy improved in 69.2%, 80.0%, and 33.3% of patients with CPA and 73.9%, 71.4%, and 40.9% of patients with RCC, respectively. There were 2 RCC recurrences and 1 CPA recurrence over the follow-up period. Surgeons must prepare for versatile management strategies of CSMs based on pretest probability associated with MRI and intraoperative findings. Outcomes after EEA for CSMs show low complication profiles and excellent rates of headache and visual improvement, albeit lower rates of endocrine normalization.

Stepwise Algorithm for Skull Base Reconstruction in Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery: From the Simple to the Complex

Abstract INTRODUCTION The most frequent complication of endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) is postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. This study was designed to develop a step-wise algorithm for EES reconstruction across the spectrum of skull base defects: from free mucosal graft for uncomplicated pituitary adenomas to free flaps in complex cases with recurrent leaks. METHODS All patients with skull base pathologies who underwent EES between January 2017 and December 2018 were included and retrospectively analyzed. Tumor location, reconstruction method and postoperative CSF leak were reviewed and a step-wise algorithm based on size and location of defect was developed. RESULTS Location of skull base defects was categorized as follows: anterior fossa, suprasellar, sellar and posterior fossa. For all nonsellar sites, we performed a multilayer (collagen matrix + /- fascia lata + /− fat graft + vascularized flap) reconstruction. The nasoseptal flap (NSF) was the first choice for vascularized reconstruction when available. For all sellar lesions we employed a free mucosal graft unless a high-flow CSF leak was present, in which case a single-layer reconstruction with NSF was performed. When the NSF was not available, alternative local (lateral nasal wall flap) and regional (extracranial pericranial flap) pedicled flaps were successful choices. When patients failed multiple attempts at repair, regional or microvascular free flaps were options. Lumbar spinal drainage was employed for large anterior and posterior fossa defects and during secondary repair of postoperative CSF leaks. Of 347 patients, 4.6% had a postoperative CSF leak. Of 158 patients with an intraoperative leak (45.5%), 10.1% developed a postoperative CSF leak: 7.8% for sellar/suprasellar defects and 13% for anterior/posterior fossa defects. CONCLUSION This algorithm provides a standardized, stepwise approach to the reconstruction of all skull base defects after EES based on location.

Endoscopic Endonasal Reconstruction of High-Flow Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak with Fascia Lata "Button" Graft and Nasoseptal Flap: Surgical Technique and Case Series.

Background The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) has become increasingly used for resection of skull base tumors in the sellar and suprasellar regions. A nasoseptal flap (NSF) is routinely used for anterior skull base reconstruction; however, there are numerous additional allografts and autografts being used in conjunction with the NSF. The role of perioperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion is also unclear. Objective This study was aimed to analyze success of high-flow CSF leak repair during EEA procedures without use of CSF diversion through lumbar drainage. Methods A retrospective chart review of patients who had intraoperative high-flow CSF leak during EEA procedures at our institution between January 2013 and December 2017 was performed. CSF leaks were repaired with use of a fascia lata button graft and nasoseptal flap, without use of perioperative lumbar drains. Results A total of 38 patients were identified (10 male, 28 female). Patient BMIs ranged from 19.7 to 49 kg/m 2 (median = 31 kg/m 2 ), with 18 patients meeting criteria for obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m 2 ) and 12 patients overweight (25 kg/m 2 < BMI < 29.9 kg/m 2 ). There was no incidence of postoperative CSF leak. Conclusion In our experience, the nasoseptal flap used in conjunction with the fascia lata button graft is a safe, effective and robust combination for cranial base reconstruction with high-flow intraoperative CSF leaks, without need for lumbar drains.

Endoscopic cerebrospinal fluid leak repair: how we do it

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea is characterized by a defect in the barriers which separate the subarachnoid space from sinonasal tract resulting in the leakage of watery fluid from the nose. Management of CSF rhinorrhoea is by both conservative and/or surgical approach. Transnasal endoscopic method has become the preferred surgical method for the repair of CSF leak because of less complication as compared to the open approach. To evaluate the results of patients who underwent endoscopic repair of CSF rhinorrhoea over a period of 5 years at BJ Medical College, Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; 118 patients were included in this retrospective study who underwent CSF leak repair by nasal endoscopy over a period of 5 years between 2011-2016 in the department of ENT at BJ Medical College, Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad. As per review of the records, these patients were diagnosed with CSF leak on the basis of their history, clinical examination, and radiological investigations. Materials used for the repair were fat, fascia lata, fibrin sealant, and/or vascular flap. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; Primary surgery was successful in 110 (93%) of cases. In 8 (7%) cases, there was a recurrence of leak which was managed by either conservative management (5 cases, 4%) or by re-exploration (3 cases, 3%).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Transnasal endoscope is an important tool for the evaluation and subsequent treatment of CSF rhinorrhoea. Endoscopic repair of CSF rhinorrhoea is safe, effective, has a low complication rate and has almost completely replaced the open technique.&lt;/p&gt;

Recurrent Rathke's Cleft Cysts: Incidence and Surgical Management in a Tertiary Pituitary Center over 2 Decades.

Limited data exist pertaining to outcomes following surgery for recurrent Rathke's cleft cysts (RCC). To determine treatment outcomes in patients undergoing reoperation for recurrent or residual RCCs. A retrospective analysis of 112 consecutive RCC operations in 109 patients between 1995 and 2017 was conducted. Eighteen patients underwent 21 RCC reoperations with a mean follow-up of 58 mo. Patient symptoms prior to reoperation included headaches (14, 66.7%) and vision loss (12, 57.1%). Thirteen of 18 patients (72.2%) required hormone supplementation prior to reoperation including 5 with diabetes insipidus (DI). Mean RCC diameter was 16 mm and 76% had suprasellar extension. Compared to index RCC cases, intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak repair was more common in reoperation cases (15/21, 71% vs 43/91, 47%, P=.05). There was 1 carotid artery injury without neurological sequelae, and 2 postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks (9.5%). Rates of transient hyponatremia (3/10, 30% vs 4/91, 4.4%, P=.04) and transient DI (5/10, 50% vs 17/91, 18.7%, P=.04) were higher in the reoperation vs index group. Improved headaches and vision were reported in 4/12 (33%) and 8/12 (61.5%) of RCC reoperation patients, respectively. Two patients developed new permanent DI. A higher proportion of reoperation patients had RCC squamous metaplasia (24% vs 5.4%, P=.02) or wall inflammation (42.9% vs 2.2%, P<.001) on pathological examination. Reoperation for RCCs is generally safe at tertiary pituitary centers and often results in improved vision. Hypopituitarism is less likely to improve following reoperation for recurrent RCCs. Several histopathological features may help characterize "atypical RCCs" with a higher likelihood of recurrence/progression.

Microsurgical treatment of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea after operation of vestibular schwannoma due to the opening of internal auditory canal

Objective To investigate the microsurgical treatment of refractory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea after operation of vestibular schwannoma due to the opening of internal auditory canal. Methods From January 2012 to May 2018, a total of 249 patients with vestibular schwannoma underwent tumor resection at Neurosurgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University. There were 8 (3.2%) cases that developed CSF rhinorrhea after operation. Among them, 5 underwent conservative therapy and CSF leakage disappeared and the remaining 3 (1.2%) cases with refractory CSF leakage received second craniotomy for CSF leakage repair on the 3rd, 9 th and 28 th day after tumor resection respectively. Suboccipital retrosigmoid approach (original incision) was used to repair the defect of posterior wall of internal auditory canal. Fresh muscle granules and glue were used to seal the defect of posterior wall of internal auditory canal. Results Among the 3 patients who underwent surgical repair operation, CSF leakage disappeared immediately in 2 cases and cured one month later in 1 case. Facial nerve function was not affected after the second operation. The assessment based on House-Brackman classification revealed grade 1 in 2 cases and grade 2 in 1 case at discharge. All the 3 patients developed intracranial infection and recovered after anti-infection therapy. Conclusions CSF rhinorrhea after vestibular schwannoma surgery is a relatively common complication. Meticulous sealing of opened air cells in the petrous bone (around the inner auditory canal and mastoid air cells) seems necessary for the prevention and treatment CSF leakage. Key words: Neuroma, acoustic; Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea; Microsurgery; Inner auditory canal

The efficacy of an endoscopic endonasal approach in the repair of cerebrospinal fluid fistula: a clinical analysis

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula is an abnormal CSF leakage due to bone and/or dural defect of the skull base and usually operated with endonasal endoscopic approach. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of an endonasal endoscopic approach in the repair of CSF leakage and to find the reasons of the recurrence of endoscopic procedure.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; The medical records of 24 patients that presented with the diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid fistula and who had undergone endonasal endoscopic repair surgery were reviewed retrospectively. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; 13 patients (54.2%) were found to have spontaneous CSF fistulas without any history of trauma, while 11 patients (45.8%) had posttraumatic CSF fistulas. The mean body mass index (BMI) of patients was 31. 3 kg/m² (20.1-49.6). Nasal septal cartilage was used as a graft material in 19 patients (79%) while only fascia was used in 5 patients (21%). The evaluation of long-term results revealed recurrence in 4 patients (16.6%). Two of these patients required a second surgical repair.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; An endoscopic endonasal approach is a safe method with less morbidity and a reliable outcome in the repair of CSF fistulas. The most important causative factors in the recurrence of endoscopic repair of CSF leak might be to have high BMI and not to use multilayered graft material for closure of fistula.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

Dural Reconstruction With Autologous Rectus Fascia: A New Technique for Addressing Large-Sized Defects During Cranioplasty.

Patients requiring cranioplasty reconstruction with customized cranial implants may unexpectedly present with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks and durotomies following previous neurosurgical procedures. As such, multiple factors influence the type of dural reconstruction chosen at this time, which are essential for achieving long-term success. Overall, the most common material used for duraplasty is currently an "off-the-shelf" xenograft construct. However, some believe that they are not suitable for large-sized defects and accompany a higher incident of complications. Therefore, based on our success and experience with scalp augmentation using rectus fascia grafts, the authors herein present our preliminary experience with duraplasty using autologous rectus fascia grafts (ARFGs). A retrospective review of our database, consisting of 437 cranial reconstructions from 2012 to 2017, was performed under institutional review board approval. Selection criteria included all adult patients (n = 6) requiring dural reconstruction (duraplasty) with ARF grafting for an active CFS leak with concomitant skull defect. Cadaver study and patient illustrations are also presented to demonstrate clinical applicability. All outcomes, including complications, were reviewed and are presented here. A total of 6 patients underwent autologous duraplasty with either unilateral or bilateral ARFGs. All patients (6/6) of large-sized (>3 cm) defect repair with ARFGs were indicated for repair of secondary CSF leaks following previous craniotomy by neurosurgery. To date, none have demonstrated recurrent leaking and/or dura-related complications. At this time, all 6 patients were reconstructed using customized cranial implants with a mean follow-up of 10 months. Based on our preliminary experience presented here, the use of rectus fascia grafts for autologous dural reconstruction appears to be both safe and reliable. This new technique adds another tool to the neurosurgical armamentarium by reducing the additional risk of "off-the-shelf" dural substitutes.

Endoscopic endonasal repair of sphenoid cerebrospinal fluid leak, review and institutional experience

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Rhinogenic CSF leaks are not an uncommon presentation. Considering the possibility of drastic intracranial complications if left untreated, makes the management of such cases of outmost importance. Most of the non-traumatic CSF leaks will need a surgical repair. And since the introduction of the endoscopic nasal surgeries, these repairs are done almost always through the endoscopic endonasal approach.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; Retrospective review of cases with endoscopic repair of sphenoid CSF leak, who presented to King Fahad Specialist Hospital in Dammam (KFSH-D), from November 2003 to December 2017. And the U.S. National Library of Medicine (Pubmed) database was searched for “Sphenoid CSF Leak”. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; We had a total of 12 cases. The demographic data, diagnostic investigations and operative data were retrieved and reviewed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; We advise using high resolution CT and intra-operative fluroscein for a reliable localization. And we found no complications with use of correct concentration of fluroscein. Endoscopic endonasal approach for repair of sphenoid CSF leak was found to be both effective and safe.&lt;/p&gt;

Pediatric skull base surgery: Encephaloceles and cerebrospinal fluid leaks

In recent years, endoscopic endonasal approaches to the pediatric skull base have become an increasingly popular method for treatment of a variety of malignant and benign lesions. These approaches have largely evolved from experience in adult patients and can be an excellent alternative to open procedures in carefully selected patients. Pediatric encephaloceles can be addressed via open craniotomy, transpalatal, and endoscopic endonasal methods. The surgical approach should be dictated by the anatomy of the patient as well as the size and location of the encephalocele in question. Pediatric cerebrospinal fluid leaks can occur due to iatrogenic causes during skull base resections or sinus surgery, as well as from traumatic injury. Multiple options for repair of cerebrospinal fluid leaks exist, but endoscopic nasoseptal flaps are among the most commonly utilized reconstruction options.

Utilization of the Nasoseptal Flap for Repair of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak after Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Resection of Pituitary Tumors.

BackgroundOne of the most frequent complications after endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) for resection of pituitary tumors is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. With the introduction of the pedicled nasoseptal flap, the reconstruction of the skull base has improved significantly resulting in a decrease in the occurrence of persistent CSF leaks. We present our experience utilizing the pedicled nasoseptal flap technique after EEA for reconstruction of the skull base in cases where CSF leak was detected.MethodsData for patients undergoing EEA for pituitary tumors was retrospectively reviewed. These included demographic, clinical, operative, radiographic, and pathological information. Incidence of post-operative complications and CSF leaks were recorded. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.ResultsBetween 2008 and 2015, 67 patients and 69 hospital admissions with pituitary tumors underwent a nasoseptal flap to reconstruct a skull base defect at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The mean age at surgery was 54.5±14.2 years. Fifty-two percent of patients were male. Forty-six percent of patients were white, 33% African-American, and 12% belonged to other racial groups. There was an intraoperative CSF leak in 39% of patients. Seventy percent of patients with an intraoperative CSF leak had a nasoseptal flap reconstruction of the skull base. There were zero postoperative CSF leaks.ConclusionWith the introduction of the pedicled nasoseptal flap for reconstruction of the skull base after EEA for resection of pituitary adenomas, the incidence of postoperative CSF leaks has decreased significantly. In this retrospective analysis, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the use of nasoseptal flap in repairing CSF leak after EEA.

Skull base defects multilayer plasty in patients with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak: our experience

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is one of the types of non-traumatic CSF leaks in which the etiologic factor is unknown. Skull base defects transnasal endoscopic plasty is the initial method of surgical repair of spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks. METHODS: Forty-five patients with spontaneous CSF leaks were managed using multilayer transplant technique. The basic choice criteria of endoscopic transnasal surgical approach and materials to reconstruction of skull base defects were the size of defect and its localization. In all cases pediculated flaps in combination with free graft were used. RESULTS: In 43 (96%) cases CSF leaks was successfully managed in primary surgery, which indicates high efficiency of the described surgical interventions.

Application of image-guided system in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery

Objective:To evaluate the applicative value of image-guided system in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeries. Method:A total of 103 endoscopic surgical procedures were performed.All these procedures were conducted with the utilization of image-guided system, among which there were 92 cases of sinonasal-skull base surgery(including nasal sinuses resection of benign and malignant tumors involving skull base lesions, the cumulative orbital lesion resection of nasal sinus lesions, etc. ), 6 repair of cerebrospinal fluid leak, 3 pituitary adenoma resection, 2 traumatic neuropathy optic nerve decompression. Result:With the utilization of image-guided system, all patients had successful surgery without major and minor complications. The image-guided system provided high precision with short registration time. Conclusion:Image-guided system can help the surgeon to identify accurately the vital anatomic landmarks of sinus and skull base, improving surgical accuracy and safety as well as reducing or avoiding the intraoperative and postoperative complications.

The Effect of lumbar drains on spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak repair.

Objectives:To address the factors affecting recurrence after endoscopic surgical repairs of spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak, specifically the influence of using lumbar drains.Methods:This study involved a retrospective data analysis, including a chart review of all spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak cases who underwent endoscopic anterior skull base repair from 2012-2017 in King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Results:Thirteen patients with spontaneous CSF leaks were identified and evaluated. The majority were females (92.3%) with an average body mass index of 34.9. All patients underwent endoscopic repair with intra-operative lumbar drain placement. Patients continued having post-operative lumbar drain for an average of 6.4 days. Four patients (30.8%) developed recurrence; however, only one of those had a documented high opening pressure.Conclusion:Spontaneous CSF leak repairs are at a higher failure risk and may have an underlying pathology involving CSF circulation. The use of lumbar drains and intracranial pressure lowering agents are controversial and seems to be reserved only for high risk patients; however, the higher risk of recurrence in this group may be better managed by proper pre-operative evaluation and selective, patient-specific management protocols.

Complications Associated With Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery: Review of the Literature.

Complications Associated With Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery: Review of the Literature.

Surgical Management of Sphenoid Sinus Lateral Recess Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks: A Single Neurosurgical Center Analysis of Endoscopic Endonasal Minimal Transpterygoid Approach

To review the results of sphenoid sinus lateral recess (SSLR) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks treated with the endoscopic endonasal minimal transpterygoid approach (EEMTPA) and to discuss the surgical technique and outcomes. We performed a retrospective analysis of 13 cases who underwent SSLR CSF leak repair through the EEMTPA in our clinic between September 2008 and December 2017. Demographic and etiological features with reconstruction and surgical outcomes were examined. Mean follow-up time was 6.1 years. In regard to etiology, the SSLR CSF leaks included 9 patients with spontaneous, 2 patients with traumatic, and 2 with iatrogenic causes. CSF leak was at the left lateral recess in 8 cases and at right lateral recess in 5 cases. Nine patients had empty sella syndrome, and 11 patients had meningoencephaloceles in addition to SSLR CSF leaks. All patients underwent surgery through the EEMTPA, and a multilayer closure with tissue overlay grafts were used for reconstruction. A pedicled nasoseptal flap and/or pedicled middle turbinate flap were applied to the area of the leak in all cases. One patient had a persistent CSF leak and another had recurrence, both of which required revision surgery. Our overall success rate was 100%. EEMTPA is a safe and effective method that can be used to treat challenging pathologies at the SSLR, including CSF leaks accompanying meningoencephaloceles. Furthermore, the success rate of EEMTPA for SSLR CSF leaks can be increased by applying endoscopic skull base reconstruction techniques such as the pedicled nasoseptal flap and pedicled middle turbinate flap.

Plasma-rich fibrin in neurosurgery: a feasibility study.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage represents an important and sometimes challenging complication in both cranial and spinal surgery. Current available options for dural closure pose inherent problems regarding safety, efficacy, immunogenicity, cost, and invasiveness. In this article, the use of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) derived from the patient's own blood is proposed to facilitate dural closure. We aim to describe the safety, feasibility, and applicability of L-PRF membranes and plugs in cranial and spinal neurosurgery. A retrospective study reviewing clinical and surgical characteristics was conducted in 47 patients in whom the use of L-PRF was attempted to reinforce dural closure at a single institution during 1year. Procedures included skull base, posterior fossa, and spinal revision surgeries. L-PRF membranes and/or plugs were used in 44 surgeries. The preparation of L-PRF failed in three cases. L-PRF membranes were used as onlay grafts to augment sealing or sutured into a defect. No short-term complications related to the use of L-PRF were recorded. Postoperative CSF leakage was present in two endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries and in one spinal CSF leak repair. L-PRF is safe, inexpensive, and completely autologous and can be rapidly and non-invasively harvested to aid in dural closure. Theoretical advantages include a regenerative bioactive potential, which could lead to improved wound healing and reduced infection rates. These findings warrant larger prospective studies to determine the potential role of L-PRF in neurosurgery.

Surgical Approach To Manage Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea Through Vault Or Through Nose

Objective: Background: Surgical management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea can be done through a transcranial approach or endoscopically using a transnasal approach. The endoscopic technology is relatively fresh in developing countries. Keeping this in mind we conducted an audit of patients undergoing endoscopic repair of CSF leaks to review their outcome in terms of recurrence and complications and compare them with the patients had transcranial repair. The objective of the study is to review the management of patients who underwent repair of CSF rhinorrhea at Lyari General Hospital, Aga Khan University Hospital and Memon Medical Institute Hospital – 10 years experience. Study design: Cross-sectional observational study Place and duration of Study: Lyari General Hospital, Aga Khan University Hospital and Memon Medical Institute Hospital, from January 2005 to December 2014 Patients &amp; methods: A review of patient charts having undergone surgical repair for CSF rhinorrhea in the last 10 years at our institution was conducted. Thirty eight patients meeting the inclusion criteria of having undergone a surgical procedure for the repair of CSF rhinorrhea with a minimum post operative follow up of 6 months were included in the study. Results: Skull base defects were repaired with the help of minimally invasive transnasal endoscopic approach with a success rate of 80% in comparison to transcranial repair success rate of 29%. Post-operative complications were seen in only 10% of endoscopic group and 53% of transcranial group. Conclusion: Although endoscopic management is associated with better outcomes there is room for improvement in the approach in developing countries and training programs and detailed internal audits need to be conducted to improve the situation to the level of developed countries.