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Background Incidental durotomy (ID) during lumbar spine surgery is a frequent complication of lumbar spine surgical procedures. Many surgical techniques were described in literature for repair of durotomy, however it is a matter of debate if one technique is a gold standard method of repair. Our study described two groups with posterior and postero-lateral ID that occurred during lumbar spine surgery: group A with 34 cases with a mean age of 49.85 years repaired by primary water tight closure using prolene or silk sutures, and group B with 34 cases with a mean age of 47.18 years treated with augmented primary repair (sutures augmented with a graft from lumbar fascia and tissue sealant "Fibrin glue"). Patients were evaluated for risk factors for durotomy, post-operative clinical outcome, and need for revision surgery. Results Eleven cases of group A and nine cases of group B had previous spine surgery. The dural tear was Conclusions Dural closure technique after ID does not seem to influence revision surgery rates due to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and its complications. Durotomies that were immediately recognized and treated did not lead to any significant consequences.

The Rationale: Dural tear is a serious complication during hypertelorism corrective surgeries. Identifying the tear and managing requires considerable expertise. Managing large dural tears correctly is necessary to prevent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-related complications in craniofacial surgery. Patient Concerns: The patient presented with hypertelorism as a part of the Tessier Cleft 0 and sought to correct the widely placed eyes. Diagnosis: Large critical-sized dural tear during modified box osteotomy surgery. Treatment: Besides successful modified box osteotomy surgery, the critical-sized dural tear was managed with fascia lata and fibrin glue. Outcomes: There was no CSF leak or related complication postsurgically indicating successful sealing and healing of the dural tear. Take-Away Lessons: The synergistic mechanism by which fascia lata graft and fibrin glue help to hermetically seal the critical-sized defect, especially when there are variable amounts of hydrostatic-hydrodynamic forces of CSF exerting pressure on the patched area, is discussed.

Trattamento delle fistole rinoliquorali: quando è richiesto un approccio chirurgico multidisciplinare al basicranio?Le fistole rinoliquorali sono una patologia poco comune ma, a causa delle temibili complicanze, potenzialmente fatale. A seconda dell’eziologia, possono essere classificate in traumatiche e spontanee. La diagnosi è sia clinica che radiologica. Negli ultimi tre decenni, il trattamento chirurgico si è molto evoluto, passando da un approccio invasivo intracranico ad un approccio endoscopico endonasale, il quale si è dimostrato maggiormente efficace a fronte di un minore numero di complicanze post-operatorie a breve e lungo termine e della riduzione dei tempi operatori e di ospedalizzazione. La diagnosi ed il trattamento delle fistole rinoliquorali sono da sempre stati alquanto complessi. Le principali problematiche dipendono dalle difficoltà di localizzazione della sede della fistola e, nel caso delle forme spontanee, anche dal corretto inquadramento di eventuali fattori predisponenti e comorbilità. Al fine di ridurre al minimo i rischi di insuccesso del trattamento chirurgico è necessario un approccio gestionale di tipo multidisciplinare. In conclusione, la possibilità di assumere le decisioni terapeutiche nell’ambito di un équipe multidisciplinare dedicata – Skull Base Team –, che si avvalga della presenza di otorinolaringoiatra e neurochirurgo, così come del neuroradiologo e dell’oculista, è fondamentale per localizzare con precisione la sede e delineare le caratteristiche della fistola in modo da ottenere il successo terapeutico. La stretta collaborazione multidisciplinare potrà inoltre permettere lo sviluppo in futuro di nuovi biomateriali in grado di facilitare e standardizzare le tecniche di riparazione multistrato, oggi in gran parte condizionate dalle preferenze del chirurgo.Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak remains a rare condition, characterized by serious complications and potentially fatal. According to different etiologies, CSF leaks may be classified into two main categories: traumatic and spontaneous. Spontaneous fistulas seem to be mainly related to obesity and idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Diagnosis is both clinical and radiological. During the last three decades, surgical treatment has mostly shifted to endonasal endoscopic approach, which widely demonstrated to be more effective than invasive intracranial ones. Post-operative complications, long-term sequelae and hospital stay are strongly reduced thanks to endoscopic approach. The diagnosis and treatment of CSF leaks represent a difficult and challenge task. The main effort seems to be related to the precise localization of the leak. An accurate assessment of both predisposing factors and comorbidities is mandatory in case of spontaneous leaks. However, a clinical multidisciplinary evaluation as well as treatment, is essential to decrease the rate of failure of surgery. The presence of a dedicated instruments, the Skull Base Team, the knowledge of reconstructive materials and techniques represents a decisive result in therapeutical management even if for each patient an effective therapeutic algorithm can be obtained considering the correct leak detection and characteristics. In conclusion the strict teamwork with neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, ophtalmologists will enable the development also of innovative biomaterials, which could spread and standardize multi-layer techniques, nowadays still related to surgeon preferences.

Encephaloceles are herniation of cranial content arising from a skull defect. Encephaloceles of the lateral wall of the sphenoid sinus (ELWSS) are uncommon events. In most cases, these cranial hernias are secondary to trauma and craniofacial surgery. Spontaneous forms are evenrarer and not well understood. The most adopted hypothesis is a persisting Sternberg’s canal, an embryonic remnant connecting the middle cranial fossa and the nasopharynx. ELWSS are usually revealed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Diagnosis of this disease necessitates quick management due to the potential of lethal complications such as meningitis. We report the case of a spontaneous ELWSS in a 53-year-old woman revealed by CSF leak which was successfully managed with a conventional transcranial approach. We focus on the clinical aspect and pathogenesis of the disease, and discuss the main possible surgical approaches. Keywords: Spontaneous encephalocele, Sphenoid sinus, CSF leak, Transcranial approach

Study Design: This study design includes retrospective study of prospectively collected data. Introduction: The purpose is to determine the efficacy of posterior cervical laminectomy for multilevel cervical ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). Laminectomy has been a preferred surgical treatment for multilevel cervical OPLL since a long time. Because of the risk associated with progressive kyphosis, the trend is shifted from laminectomy alone to laminoplasty and laminectomy with fusion. The data regarding the efficacy of laminectomy alone in terms of clinical and radiological parameters in multilevel cervical OPLL are scanty. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 82 patients with multilevel cervical OPLL who underwent posterior cervical laminectomy from January 2008 to December 2014. Patients with age ≥45 years, C2–C7 Cobb’s angle ≥ 10o, compression at ≥3 levels, and a minimum of 5 years of follow-up were included in the study. Demographics, pre and postoperative clinical parameters (visual analog scale (VAS), Nurick’s grading, and modified Japanese orthopedic association (mJOA) score), radiological parameters (C2–C7 Cobb’s angle, C2–C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA)), perioperative parameters, complications, and recovery rate were evaluated. Results: The mean age of the patients was 56.4 (46–72) with M: F of 52:30. The mean blood loss and mean operative time were 93.9 mL and 96.6 min, respectively. There was significant improvement (P < 0.05) in VAS (3.6 ± 1.4 to 1.8 ± 0.8), Nurick’s grading (3.2 ± 0.9 to 1.9 ± 0.6), and mJOA score (8.4 ± 1.4 to 13.8 ± 1.9). C2–C7 Cobb’s angle increased from ‒14.4 ± 1.7o preoperatively to ‒8.2 ± 1.5o postoperatively and C2–C7 SVA from 18.4 ± 12.5 to 29.8 ± 15.8. Intraoperatively four patients had a dural tear. Three patients showed neurological deterioration postoperatively and three had unilateral C5 palsy which improved within a period of 6 months. 18.3% had an excellent outcome, 40.3% had good, 34.1% had fair, and 7.3% of the patients had a poor outcome. Conclusion: Multilevel cervical laminectomy is an effective surgical procedure in properly selected patients with multilevel OPLL. The outcomes are satisfactory in terms of radiological and clinical parameters. The risk of postlaminectomy kyphosis is not too high, and we found no correlation of kyphosis with clinical affection.

Introduction There are many reported modifications to the retrosigmoid approach including variations in skin incisions, soft tissue dissection, bone removal/replacement, and closure. Objective The aim of this study was to report the technical nuances developed by two senior skull base surgeons for retrosigmoid craniectomy with reconstruction and provide anatomic dissections, surgical video, and outcomes. Methods The regional soft tissue and bony anatomy as well as the steps for our retrosigmoid craniectomy were recorded with photographs, anatomic dissections, and video. Records from 2017 to 2019 were reviewed to determine the incidence of complications after the authors began using the described approach. Results Dissections of the relevant soft tissue, vascular, and bony structures were performed. Key surgical steps are (1) a retroauricular C-shaped skin incision, (2) developing a skin and subgaleal tissue flap of equal thickness above the fascia over the temporalis and sub-occipital muscles, (3) creation of subperiosteal soft tissue planes over the top of the mastoid and along the superior nuchal line to expose the suboccipital region, (4) closure of the craniectomy defect with in-lay titanium mesh and overlay hydroxyapatite cranioplasty, and (5) reapproximation of the soft tissue edges during closure. Complications in 40 cases were pseudomeningocele requiring shunt (n = 3, 7.5%), wound infection (n = 1, 2.5%), and aseptic meningitis (n = 1, 2.5%). There were no incisional cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Conclusion The relevant regional anatomy and a revised technique for retrosigmoid craniectomy with reconstruction have been presented with acceptable results. Readers can consider this technique when using the retrosigmoid approach for pathology in the cerebellopontine angle.

A 50-year-old patient was admitted with symptoms of intracranial hypotension. MRI revealed a cervical myelomalacia caused by engorged epidural veins leading to a stenosis of the spinal canal. This condition is rarely described in patients with hydrocephalus and ventricular shunts suffering from chronic overdrainage. However, the reason in this patient was a CSF leak caused by an intradural disc herniation at T12/L1. After surgery, symptoms resolved and the cervical myelomalacia and the swollen epidural veins disappeared on postoperative MRI. In patients with engorged cervical epidural veins without a ventricular shunt, a CSF leak has to be considered.

Purpose Intraventricular neuroendoscopic techniques, particularly third ventriculostomy, are employed increasingly in the management of infantile hydrocephalus. However, surgical access to the ventricular cavities is associated with a risk of post-operative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Here, we describe a structured, multi-layered approach to wound opening and closure which aims to maximise the natural tissue barriers against CSF leakage. We present a series of patients undergoing this technique and subsequently review the literature regarding opening and closure techniques in paediatric intraventricular neuroendoscopic procedures. Methods We performed a retrospective case series analysis of patients under 1 year of age who underwent intraventricular neuroendoscopic procedures in a single institution over a 5-year period. Patients were identified from an institutional operative database, and operation notes and clinical records were subsequently reviewed. Results 28 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this study. The mean age at operation was 9 weeks. 27 patients underwent endoscopic third ventriculostomy whilst 1 underwent endoscopic septostomy, and all patients underwent our structured, multi-layered opening and closure technique. Follow-up ranged from 4 months to 5 years. There were no cases of post-operative CSF leak, infection or wound breakdown. 12 patients remained shunt-free at the last follow-up, with the remaining 16 requiring shunt insertion for progressive hydrocephalus at a mean of 24 days post-operatively. Conclusion Various methods aiming to prevent post-operative CSF leak have been reported in the literature. We propose that our institutional technique may be of benefit in minimising this risk in infants undergoing endoscopic third ventriculostomy and similar intraventricular neuroendoscopic procedures.

A major complication in cranial and spinal surgery is the post-operative occurrence of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Here we reported a technical note firstly describing the use of Hemopatch® with fibrin glue as a dural sealant in cranial and spinal neurosurgical procedures. Moreover we carried out a review of the literature. Further to the best of our knowledge this was the first series including patients submitted to different spinal surgeries in whom Hemopatch® was used as dural sealant. We prospectively collected the data of 22 patients. In all procedures, fibrin glue was applied after Hemopatch®. The mean age was 59.68 ± 10.79 years and the mean follow-up (FU) was 3.63 ± 1.46 months, respectively. Overall, Hemopatch® with fibrin glue was used in 8 cranial procedures (36.36%; all were retrosigmoid craniotomies) and 14 spinal procedures (63.64%). 9/14 spinal cases (64.28%) were incidental durotomies during a spinal decompression procedure. No CSF leak, no postoperative infection, no adverse reaction were observed during the FU in all cases. The literature search revealed only two retrospective series, reporting only patients submitted to cranial surgery for a total of 56 patients and a CSF leak occurring in 3 patients (5.35%). In conclusion, we firstly reported the feasibility and the safety of using Hemopatch® with fibrin glue as dural sealant in cranial surgery and different spinal procedures. Further larger comparative studies are needed to confirm our initial encouraging results.

Introduction and Objectives: Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the frontal sinus is a challenging condition facing the ENT surgeon. Repair of this condition has been changed nowadays due to the newer instruments and techniques of nasal endoscopy. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of frontal sinus CSF leak endoscopic repair. Patients and methods Twenty-seven patients who had frontal sinus CSF leaks were included in this study. They were 9 females and 18 males. They underwent endoscopic repair of the leak site at the period of five years from 2015 to 2020. A retrospective evaluation of these patients includes reconstructive procedures, complications, and postoperative follow-up. Results The frontal leaks were present in the frontal recess (8 patients, 29.6%), ethmoidal roof (5 patients, 18.5%), and the majority was in the posterior wall (14 patients, 51.9%); 11 in the medial side and 3 in the lateral side. All cases, 27 (100%) were treated successfully, no failed treatment was observed. Postoperative complications were minimal; two patients had elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), infection with fever were found in four patients (7.4%), and meningitis was observed in only two cases (7.4%), treated conservatively. Conclusion For frontal sinus CSF leak repair, the endonasal endoscopic approach is the treatment of choice due to higher success rates and lower morbidity profile. A favorable result is possible with proper diagnosis, precise localization, and an appropriate strategy., Highlights • CSF leakage from the frontal sinus is a challenging condition for ENT surgeons. • Repair has been changed nowadays due to the newer techniques of nasal endoscopy. • We report favorable results of the endonasal endoscopic approach in 27 patients. • Proper diagnosis and precise localization are acheived.

Background Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) leaks usually happen after damaging the cribriform plate due to trauma, and it’s less likely spontaneous. Case Description We are presenting a case that suffered from spontaneous refractory CSF leak which did not resolve after multiple surgical interventions. During treatment, a decision was made to place a lumbar drain to promote healing and recovery. Once the drain was removed, the patient deteriorated suddenly. Decompressive craniectomy was performed with transcranial skull base repair with the application of cement (Methyl methacrylate) around the cribriform defect. The patient then gradually recovered with no further leak. Discussion Using bone cement in transcranial CSF leak repair is not commonly reported, compared to the routine use of a pericranial flap. Nevertheless, it showed a high success rate and less recurrence of CSF leak. Lumber drain can be used as a post-op adjuvant technique. Conclusion We are proposing that the patient’s deterioration was related to the closure of lumbar drain, hence the presence of a one-way valve where air enters and cannot escape with no other means of reducing ICP. We are also demonstrating that bone cement (Methyl methacrylate) can be considered in the management of CSF leak due to skull base defects which is resistant to conventional repair methods including nasoseptal flap and/or pericranial flap.

Background There is a significant variance in surgical treatment strategies of ventral cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks causing spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Posterior approaches might represent a preferable alternative to the more invasive anterior and lateral routes, as long as the spinal cord is not exposed to harmful manipulation. The aim of this technical note is to report and illustrate a new surgical technique using an intradural extraarachnoid sutureless technique via laminoplasty for indirect repair of ventral CSF leaks causing intractable SIH symptoms. Methods The surgical technique is described in a step by step fashion. Between May 2018 and May 2020, five patients with ventral spinal CSF leaks were operated on, utilizing this technique. All dural defects were located at the level of the thoracic spine. A retrospective review on demographic and radiological findings, symptoms, outcome, and follow-up was performed. Results The intra- and postoperative course was uneventful in all patients with no surgery-related complications. Three patients recovered completely at discharge, while neurological symptoms significantly improved in two patients. A postoperative MRI of the spine was obtained for all patients, demonstrating regressive signs of CSF leak. Conclusion Based on the presented case series, this intradural extraarachnoid sutureless technique combined with laminoplasty seems to be a safe and effective option for indirect repair of ventral dural defects in SIH. In our opinion, it represents a valid alternative to traditional more aggressive approaches.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) associated with cerebrospinal fluid leak classically presents with postural headache. It is most commonly caused by the spontaneous dehiscence of a meningeal diverticulum or as a consequence of dural tears. The association between connective tissue disease and SIH is well known. However, the occurrence of SIH associated with systemic lupus erythematosus has rarely been reported. We present a 53 years old female with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus who was diagnosed with SIH. The patient was worked up with Magnetic resonance imaging and Computed tomographic myelography, and successfully treated with a nontargeted epidural blood patch. Furthermore, we review the current literature and focus on the various imaging techniques that can be used in the workup of a cerebrospinal fluid leak. Keywords: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension, Systemic lupus erythematous, CSF leak, Pachymeningeal enhancement, Venous engorgement, CT myelography

In patients with occult cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks or CSF leak syndrome, orthostatic headaches are a common presenting symptom. Although computed tomography (CT) myelography has historically been the gold standard for diagnosis with radioisotope cisternography as a diagnostic alternative, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) myelography using intrathecal gadolinium has reported sensitivity of 80%-87%. Two patients with spontaneous orthostatic headaches lasting for several days were diagnosed with CSF leaks at multiple thoracic segments using MRI myelogram with intrathecal gadolinium (Gadavist, Bayer, Whippany, NJ). This allowed for subsequent targeted treatment with CT fluoroscopy guidance, resulting in therapeutic responses within 1-2 treatment with targeted blood patching. Although intrathecal gadolinium is an off-label use, the superior contrast resolution and lack of radiation exposure makes MRI myelography an excellent imaging modality for diagnosing CSF leak, targeting treatment, and monitoring outcomes compared to CT myelography and radioisotope cisternography. Keywords: MR myelogram, CSF leak, Blood patch

Endoscopic skull base reconstruction (ESBR) following expanded-endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) in high-risk non-ideal endoscopic reconstructive candidates remains extremely challenging, and further innovations are still necessary. Here, the aim is to study the reconstructive knowledge gap following expanded-EEA and to introduce the watertight robust osteoconductive (WRO)-barrier as an alternative durable option. Distinctively, we focused on 10 clinical circumstances. A 3D-skull base-water system model was innovated to investigate the ESBR under realistic conditions. A large-irregular defect (31 × 89 mm) extending from the crista galli to the mid-clivus was achieved. Then, WRO-barrier was fashioned and its tolerance was evaluated under stressful settings, including an exceedingly high (55 cmH2O) pressure, with radiological assessment. Next, the whole WRO-barrier was drilled to examine its practical-safe removal (simulating redo-EEA) and the whole experiment was repeated. Finally, WRO-barrier was kept into place to value its 18-month long-term high-tolerance. Results in all experiments of WRO-barriers were satisfactorily fashioned to conform the geometry of the created defect under realistic circumstances via EEA, tolerated an exceedingly high pressure without evidence of leak even under stressful settings, resisted sudden-elevated pressure, and remained in its position to maintain long-term watertight seal (18 months), efficiently evaluated with neuroimaging and simply removed-and-reconstructed when redo-EEA is needed. In conclusion, WRO-barrier as an osteoconductive watertight robust design for cranial base reconstruction possesses several distinct qualities that might be beneficial for patients with complex skull base tumours.

Basal skull fractures remain one of the more difficult head and neck fractures to evaluate and treat. They often have extensive associated injuries, both intracranial and extra-cranial, which make the management of the patients more challenging. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical presentations, management and outcome of patients with base of skull fractures. This study was conducted in 174 cases with evidence of base of skull fractures on CT scans, which satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All patients were clinically evaluated and treatment as defined by the senior consultants in the department of neurosurgery. At the end of the study, clinical presentation, management and outcome of these patients were evaluated. Base of skull fracture is common in head injuries, seen in 53% of cases in this study group and most common in the 3rd decade of life. Most common mode of injury was road traffic accidents in adults and fall in children. Raccoon eye sign was seen only in 26.1% of cases. Temporal bone was the most common bone involved. Acute hemorrhagic contusion was the most commonly associated intracranial finding followed by acute Subdural hematoma. Acute subdural hemorrhage was the most common indication for surgery. Fifty eight percentage of patient recovered with a GCS of 13 or more. The mortality rate in this study group was 10.34%. However, the cause of death was the associated severe intracranial injury.

Highlights • Direct fat grafting on sizable non-suturable dural tear should be avoided. • Cranial fat dissemination can follow fat grafting for large non-suturable dural tear. • Aseptic meningitis and hydrocephalus may result from cranial fat dissemination., Introduction and importance Dural tear and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is among the most common complications in lumbar spine surgery. Although primary dural suturing is the preferred method for repair, this is not always achievable specially with ventrolateral tears. Autologous fat grafting is one of the oldest and effective methods for dural repair which can also be used along with other methods of repair. This case report highlights a unique post spinal surgery complication with comment on how to avoid it. To our knowledge, this has not been previously reported in the literature. Case presentation The authors report a sixty-seven-year-old male with lumbar pseudomeningocele and cranial fat dissemination following fat grafting for non suturable lumbar dural tear. This was demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after her presented with low-pressure headache. Clinical discussion Intraoperative dural tear is one of the most common complications in spinal surgery. Methods for optimal dural repair including fat grafting have been described but the choice still heavily dependent on the surgeon’s preference and experience. Fat graft can migrate leading to potential undesirable further complications like hydrocephalus and aseptic meningitis. Conclusion Cranial fat dissemination following fat grafting for lumbar dural tear should be recognized as a post-operative complication in lumbar spine surgery. It should be considered in case of hydrocephalus or aseptic meningitis post dural fat grafting. Surgeons should utilize adjunct methods to minimize its incidence.

The nasopharyngeal swab has been used with increased frequency since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Little has been written in the literature regarding the complications arising from this procedure, as it is generally accepted as safe. In this report, we describe a case in which a young woman sustained a traumatic skull base injury during a nasopharyngeal swab for COVID-19. We then discuss the subsequent treatment and outcome. This case demonstrates the potential for significant complications arising from this widespread procedure and the necessity for awareness of these potential complications. Laryngoscope, 131:1927-1929, 2021.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-venous fistulas are a recently recognized cause of spontaneous spinal CSF leak and present most commonly with Valsalva ("cough")-exacerbated or orthostatic headaches. By inducing CSF hypotension, they cause diffuse pachymeningeal enhancement and brain sag on MRI. This unusual case demonstrates the potential for bilateral subdural hygroma development in a patient with an undiagnosed CSF-venous fistula after ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation. A 68-year-old gentleman with medically-refractory essential tremor underwent extensive preoperative evaluation by the Mayo Clinic-Rochester DBS Committee. Initial MRI during preoperative evaluation had no evidence of CSF hypotension, but MRI performed the day before surgery demonstrated diffuse pachymeningeal enhancement. He underwent bilateral VIM DBS implantation and presented in the subacute postoperative period with bilateral subdural hygromas. Further testing identified a prominent hyperdense paraspinal vein arising from the T10/T11 nerve root, consistent with CSF-venous fistula. Even when patients undergo rigorous preoperative evaluations for surgical procedures, insidious pathologies can develop and cause unexpected postoperative complications.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension results from a spinal CSF leak and usually presents with orthostatic headache, although acephalgic presentations have anecdotally been reported. The underlying low CSF volume, rarely, leads to serious complications such as cerebral venous thrombosis and coma. We report a patient presenting with cerebral venous thrombosis secondary to acephalgic spontaneous intracranial hypotension. An epidural blood patch was performed; nonetheless, the patient intracracal condition deteriorated to coma and neuroimages showed a deep brain swelling with midbrain distortion, subsequently complicated by intracranial pontine hemorrhage. © 2020, Fondazione Società Italiana di Neurologia.

Recently, endoscopic transsphenoidal transclival approaches have been developed and their role is widely accepted for extradural pathologies. Their application to intradural pathologies is still debated, but is undoubtedly increasing. In the past five decades, different authors have reported various extracranial, anterior transclival approaches for intradural pathologies. The aim of this review is to provide a historical overview of transclival approaches applied to intradural pathologies. PubMed was searched in October 2018 using the terms transcliv*, cliv* intradural, transsphenoidal transcliv*, transoral transcliv*, transcervical transcliv*, transsphenoidal brainstem, and transoral brainstem. Exclusion criteria included not reporting reconstruction technique, anatomical studies, reviews without new data, and transcranial approaches. Ninety-one studies were included in the systematic review. Since 1966, transcervical, transoral, transsphenoidal microsurgical, and, recently, endoscopic routes have been used as a corridor for transclival approaches to treat intradural pathologies. Each approach presents a curve that follows Scott’s parabola, with evident phases of enthusiasm that quickly faded, possibly due to high post-operative CSF leak rates and other complications. It is evident that the introduction of the endoscope has led to a significant increase in reports of transclival approaches for intradural pathologies. Various reconstruction techniques and materials have been used, although rates of CSF leak remain relatively high. Transclival approaches for intradural pathologies have a long history. We are now in a new era of interest, but achieving effective dural and skull base reconstruction must still be definitively addressed, possibly with the use of newly available technologies.

Background: Cerebrospinal (CSF) fluid leaks with associated pneumocephalus (PNC) represent a condition bearing serious risks for the patient, with little data available in the literature. Reported success rates of endoscopic skull base repair are lower when PNC is associated than in the case of simple CSF leaks. The present study represents an analysis of our experience with endoscopic management of this condition. Methods: Records of patients with pneumocephalus and associated CSF leaks, who underwent endoscopic skull base repair, were reviewed. Demographics, history, etiology of PNC, size of defect, surgical approach, reconstruction technique and complications were evaluated. Results: Twenty patients with CSF leaks and PNC underwent endonasal repair by the senior author between 2005 and 2019. Defect size was larger than 15 mm in all cases. All patients presented either worsening of PNC under conservative treatment or tension PNC. First-attempt closure of the defect was successful in all patients (100%), with resolution of the pneumocephalus. One patient developed a synechia in the proximity of the frontal ostium, as a postoperative complication. The mean follow-up was 39 months (range: 15&ndash, 94 months). Conclusion: The present study represents a proposed argument for earlier endoscopic endonasal treatment in patients presenting CSF leaks and pneumocephalus.

Background: The endonasal transsphenoidal approach (TSA) has emerged as the preferred approach in order to treat pituitary adenoma and related sellar pathologies. The recently adopted expanded endonasal approach (EEA) has improved access to the ventral skull base whilst retaining the principles of minimally invasive surgery. Despite the advantages these approaches offer, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea remains a common complication. There is currently a lack of comparative evidence to guide the best choice of skull base reconstruction, resulting in considerable heterogeneity of current practice. This study aims to determine: (1) the scope of the methods of skull base repair; and (2) the corresponding rates of postoperative CSF rhinorrhoea in contemporary neurosurgical practice in the UK and Ireland. Methods: We will adopt a multicentre, prospective, observational cohort design. All neurosurgical units in the UK and Ireland performing the relevant surgeries (TSA and EEA) will be eligible to participate. Eligible cases will be prospectively recruited over 6 months with 6 months of postoperative follow-up. Data points collected will include: demographics, tumour characteristics, operative data), and postoperative outcomes. Primary outcomes include skull base repair technique and CSF rhinorrhoea (biochemically confirmed and/or requiring intervention) rates. Pooled data will be analysed using descriptive statistics. All skull base repair methods used and CSF leak rates for TSA and EEA will be compared against rates listed in the literature. Ethics and dissemination: Formal institutional ethical board review was not required owing to the nature of the study–this was confirmed with the Health Research Authority, UK. Conclusions: The need for this multicentre, prospective, observational study is highlighted by the relative paucity of literature and the resultant lack of consensus on the topic. It is hoped that the results will give insight into contemporary practice in the UK and Ireland and will inform future studies.

Following the introduction of fully endoscopic techniques for the resection of pituitary tumors, there was a rapid expansion of the indications for endonasal endoscopic surgery to include extrasellar tumors of the skull base. These techniques offer significant advantages over traditional open surgical approaches to the skull base, including improved tumor resection, and better post-operative neurological outcomes. Following their introduction, however, the initial rate of post-operative CSF leak was unacceptably high. Post-operative CSF leak following skull base surgery is a major source of morbidity, and can lead to the development of life-threatening intracranial infection. The use of vascularized naso-septal flaps transformed the management of these patients, significantly reducing the rate of post-operative CSF leak and increasing the number of patients that could benefit from this less invasive treatment modality. Adequate repair of iatrogenic defects in the skull base is of crucial importance for patients with skull base tumors, as the development of a post-operative CSF leak, and the associated complications can significantly delay the administration of the adjunctive oncological therapies these patients require. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest evidence regarding skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery, and describe the skull base repair technique in use at our institution.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, intracranial hypotension, and postdural puncture headaches are common following dural punctures. Management usually consists of conservative treatments with medications (e.g. caffeine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, opioids), increased fluid intake, and bed rest. In more severe and persistent cases, epidural blood patches (EBPs) are indicated. When multiple EBPs fail, epidural injection of fibrin sealant has been successful in a few reported adult cases. The authors describe the first reported clinical experiences of epidural fibrin patch in children for repair of CSF leak and resolution of intracranial hypotension. This technique was used in three cases where serial EBPs failed to resolve symptoms related to intracranial hypotension following dural puncture. Following the procedure, each patient had resolution of their presenting clinical symptoms and radiographic abnormalities, and there were no noted complications. Epidural fibrin sealant injection is a reasonable option for relieving intracranial hypotension due to CSF leak following dural puncture in children.

Background: Combined transorbital and transnasal endoscopic surgery for access to the skull base has contributed to the gradual expansion of the remit of the endoscopic skull base surgeon. Method: We present our technique of Silastic® sheet aided combined transorbital and transnasal endoscopic resection of anterior skull base malignancies, with a description of surgical technique and our method of safeguarding the orbital contents with appropriate suggested indications. Results: Patient underwent resection of non-intestinal type adenocarcinoma. There were no immediate or delayed postoperative complications related to transorbital access. Conclusion: In cases where tumour infiltrates medial orbital wall and there is an indication to remove the lamina papyracea and/or periorbita, we find the initial transorbital approach advantageous to find a dissection plane in healthy tissue and to achieve partial devascularisation of tumour by cauterisation of anterior and posterior ethmoidal artery. Moreover, this approach can be combined with intraorbital placement of Silastick sheet to prevent a prolapse of orbital contents into the nasal cavity during transnasal resection which may lead to its damage.

Study Design: A nonrandomized, two-armed prospective study. Objective: Water-tight dural closure is paramount to the prevention of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and associated complications. Synthetic polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel has been used as an adjunct to sutured dural repair; however, its expansion postoperatively is a concern for neurological complications. A low-swell formulation of PEG sealant was introduced as DuraSeal Exact Spine Sealant System (DESS). A Post-Approval Study was performed primarily to evaluate the safety and efficacy of DESS for spinal dural repair compared to current alternatives, in a large patient population, reflecting a real-world practice. Methods: A total of 36 sites in the United States enrolled 429 patients treated with DESS as an adjunct to dural repair in the spinal sealant group and 406 patients treated with all other modalities in the control arm, from October 2011 to June 2016. The primary endpoint was the incidence of CSF leak within 90 days of operation. The secondary endpoints evaluated were deep surgical site infection and neurological serious adverse events. Results: The CSF leakage in the DESS group (6.6%) was not significantly different from the control group (6.5%) ( p = .83), and there was no significant difference in the time to first leak. The two groups had no significant differences in deep surgical site infection (1.6% versus control 2.1%, p = .61) or proportion of subjects with neurological serious adverse events (2.9% versus control 1.6%, p = .516). Conclusions: DuraSeal Exact Spinal Sealant is safe when compared to current alternatives for spinal dural repair.

Background The sellar barrier concept reflects the association between the components of the roof of the pituitary fossa and the risk of intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in the surgery of pituitary adenomas. We based our concept in previous reports on the microsurgical anatomy of the pituitary fossa's superior wall. However, proof of the usefulness of this concept in endoscopic approaches is yet missing. The aim of this study was to describe the endoscopic anatomy of the sellar barrier and its subtypes in a laboratory setting and to provide evidence of its clinical usefulness. Methods We provided anatomical models in six fresh-frozen head and neck specimens. We performed an endoscopic endonasal approach and recreated a pathological model of each possible subtype of sellar barrier. To demonstrate the usefulness of this model in clinical practice, we conducted a prospective study including all patients with pituitary adenoma operated by an endoscopic approach between June and July 2019. Results We successfully recreated the models for each subtype of sellar barrier. When analyzing the clinical cases, we found that intraoperatively, 73.69% (14) had a strong sellar barrier; 21.05% (4) had mixed sellar barrier, and 5.26% (1) had weak sellar barrier. We recorded one case of intraoperative CSF leak in a patient with a weak sellar barrier by magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusion We described the endoscopic anatomy of the sellar barrier and we recreated the three subtypes in anatomical models. We also identified these subtypes in a series of clinical cases, proving its clinical usefulness.

Background: The clinical presentation of sphenoid sinus meningoencephaloceles (MEC) may have insidious onset and evolution. Contemporary treatment incorporates endoscopic resection via the endonasal route.Case description: We present a case of 3 year old girl who had been complaining of permanent nasal discharge, impeded nasal breathing and difficulty with feeding since she was 5 months old. There was no history of rhinoliquorrhea. Pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated MEC that extended from the sellar region through the non-pneumatized sphenoid sinus to the nasopharynx. The lesion was resected via endoscopic endonasal approach. Follow-up rhinoscopy confirmed the absence of post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak.Conclusion: Endoscopic endonasal approach can be an effective and a safe treatment option for resection of congenital transsphenoidal MEC in early childhood.Keywords: Sphenoid sinus; endoscopic endonasal approach; meningoencephalocele; CSF leak; congenital.

Objective To see effectiveness of the senior author’s repair technique for repair of large (equal to or larger than 10 mm) bony lateral skull base defects. Study design Retrospective. Settings Secondary/tertiary care center. Methods We performed retrospective review of 9 surgeries done in our institution between January 2010 and December 2013 for repair of large lateral bony skull base defects. We defined skull base defects extra-cranially and repaired them intra-cranially. We made an extracorporeal sandwich of autologous fascia-bone-fascia (fascia lata and nasal septal bone) and sewed it together to make it into a unit-sandwich graft. This extracorporeally sewed unit-sandwich graft was then inserted to close the large skull base defects either via (1) a cranial slit-window, or (2) the skull base defect itself. Since skull base is bony, bony repair is preferred. Bone plates that are easily available for skull base repair are calvarial and nasal septal bone. Occasionally, harvest of split calvarial bone carries risk of major complications. We preferred nasal septal bone. Harvesting of septal bone even in children using a posterior incision should not disturb the cartilage growth centers. Results All nine patients were operated by this technique. We had four patients with cerebrospinal fluid leak, and five patients with brain herniation. All these patients had complete reversal of herniation of cranial contents and cessation of cerebrospinal fluid leak. On imaging, in 6 cases the bone graft remained in original intended position after 12 months of surgery. The bone graft was not identifiable in 3 cases. Conclusion The senior author’s technique using autologous multi-layered graft is simple to master, repeatable and very effective.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a rare complication in of the prolactinomas treatment with dopamine agonists. In most cases CSF leak develops within the first three months of treatment starting. The article presents a rare clinical case – later development of CSF leak after pharmacological treatment of giant prolactinoma. Women 29 years with giant endo-supra-infra-laterasellar pituitary adenoma (8,7 cm in diameter), visual impairment, cachexia, secondary amenorrhea and prolactin level more than 2 million 200 thousand mU/l treated with cabergoline. On this background, complete regression of the tumor, recovery of visual function, body mass and normalization of prolactin level was marked. Nevertheless, after 6.5 years after beginning of cabergoline therapy CSF leak occured, which required endoscopic endonasal surgery with the plastic of a CSF fistula. All patients with large and giant prolactinomas which invade into skull base structures, receiving cabergoline even for a long time, should be aware of the possibility of such complications as CSF leak and, if necessary, should urgent appeals to the otolaryngologist and the neurosurgeon. In this case closure of skull base defect is a main tactics of treatment.

Objective Our primary objective was to retrospectively review our single institution experience using an anatomic multilayered repair of the retrosigmoid suboccipital craniotomy. Our secondary objective was to review the existing body of literature on the repair of this craniotomy and compare our outcomes to previous results. Design Retrospective review of 25 consecutive patients undergoing repair for the retrosigmoid craniotomy. Setting University of California Davis Medical Center (2010–2016). Participants A total of 25 consecutive patients who underwent retrosigmoid craniotomy and repair. Exclusion criteria included patients who were under the age of 18 years. Main Outcome Measures Main outcomes included incidence of postoperative headache, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and wound infections. Results Postoperative headache was reported in two patients in this series (8%). None of the patients in the series developed cerebrospinal fluid leak or wound infections. Mean follow-up period was 16 months. Conclusion Our multilayered anatomic repair after retrosigmoid suboccipital craniotomy results in favorable clinical results and may help reduce the risks associated with this operation.

Cerebrospinal fluid leaks pose a serious threat to patients as they represent an unchecked communication between the subarachnoid space and the extracranial environment. Accurate localization of the leakage site is essential for treatment planning. We describe the novel utilization of dual-energy computed tomography technology in cisternography in the evaluation of a patient with a cerebrospinal fluid leak.

Intrathecal baclofen therapy is a well-established means of treating intractable spasticity and dystonia in paediatric as well as adult population. Complications of baclofen pump placement include infection, malfunctioning and refraction to baclofen. We report a case of eight year child suffering from spasticity due to cerebral palsy, who developed pseudomeningocoele due to peri-catheter leak. Steps and precaution pertaining to pump implantation in a child are discussed. Baclofen pump insertion in a child needs some extra precautions due to non-availability of pediatric implants and poor built of the pediatric patient to adjust with a bulky device. Preventive measures should be taken to prevent peri-catheter CSF leak.

Three months following a craniectomy and cranioplasty indicated for intraperenchymal hemorrhage, a 74-year-old male suffered a cerebrospinal fluid leak complicated by delayed tension pneumocephalus and declining neurologic status demonstrating a particularly rare complication of neurologic trauma and surgery. While with symptoms of a space occupying mass is the most common presentation, the patient presented cerebrospinal fluid leak prompting CT imaging and diagnosis. Urgent surgical decompression is necessary and was performed resulting in improved mental status. Keywords: Tension pneumocephalus, Craniectomy, CSF leak, Decompression

Endoscopic ear surgery (EES) is a safe technique to approach different diseases of the middle ear, but it has certain limitations that must be respected at the risk of complications. A case of meningeal breach induced during an exclusive endoscopic approach to epitympanic cholesteatoma is presented. The limits and safety conditions of this technique are remembered.

Background 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. Methods 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. Results 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). Conclusion 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.

Introduction Incidental durotomy (ID) is a well-known complication in spine surgery. Surveys have not identified a consensus for repair method among neurosurgeons. IDs may lead to complications such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula, which may predispose patients to infection, additional procedures, increased length of stay and morbidity. This study aims to compare durotomy repair methods with clinical outcomes. Methods The neurosurgery database at a single institution, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, was screened for all patients who underwent thoracic and lumbar spine surgery from 2007-2017. Retrospective chart review of operative reports identified patients with an ID. Data collection included: length of stay, infection, additional procedures, time lying flat, CSF fistula formation (primary endpoint) with analysis using t-tests. Results A total of 384 patients underwent initial analysis. Of the 384 patients, 25 had an incidental durotomy based on operative reports. Four patients were excluded from this subset: two were repaired with muscle graft (low N), two were excluded for unclear repair method. The remaining 21 were stratified into two groups, those repaired directly with suture with or without adjunct (N=9) and those repaired indirectly with sealant (N=12). No patients developed a CSF fistula. The indirect group had a length of stay of six days, while the direct group had a length of stay of four days, p=0.184. Two of the nine patients in the direct group and two of the twelve patients in the indirect group developed an infection, p=0.586. Conclusion No patients developed CSF fistulas. Secondary endpoints of length of stay and infection rate did not differ. This study was unable to determine if direct versus indirect repair was a more effective repair method for ID. It is possible that if an incidental durotomy is identified and repaired with a water-tight seal, the repair method does not affect the outcome. It is up to the surgeon to individualize repair based on ability and circumstances.

The meninges are involved in various pathologies and are often directly or indirectly severed during surgical procedures, especially the dura mater. This can pose a real challenge for the surgeon, as a proper reconstruction of the meninges is important to prevent complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF). A variety of techniques for dural reconstruction have been described, employing natural and artificial materials. A novel technique for dural reconstruction involves soft tissue grafts in the form of fibrous or fibromuscular flaps, which are placed on the dural defects to seal the gaps. These soft tissue grafts represent an appropriate scaffold for cell ingrowth and fibrosis, thus preventing CSF. In this pilot study, we described the application of soft tissue grafts for dural reconstruction in 10 patients who underwent convexity meningioma surgery.

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are one of the few modalities currently in use for treating chronic spinal pain. There are two approaches: interlaminar ESIs and transforaminal ESIs. Complications arising from either approach are rare, but one such complication is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak leading to intracranial hypotension. Even rarer is the development of iatrogenic spinal epidural hematoma in the context of the injections. Interestingly, an association with intracranial hypotension and spinal epidural hematoma has yet to be established. Even the characteristics of an iatrogenic spinal epidural hematoma are not well defined as there are different theories of how this develops and whether we are dealing with arterial or venous blood. Our case is unique as it appears our patient had developed not one, but both clinical symptoms supportive of intracranial hypotension from a CSF leak induced iatrogenically from a cervical epidural injection and imaging demonstrated thoracic-level spinal epidural hematoma. It is unclear whether the injection directly led to the spinal leak causing the intracranial hypotension, which then brought on the formation of the hematoma or if the injection led to both intracranial hypotension and hematoma formation independent of each other. From a clinical practice standpoint, given our case suggests the hematoma was concomitantly associated with intracranial hypotension, and the possibility exists that the hematoma may have formed in the context of the intracranial hypotension, then targeted blood patches may need to be done with greater urgency to preventing hematoma formation. Further studies are needed involving clotting factors comparing arterial and venous blood. It is also puzzling why the epidural blood from the hematoma did not clot the leak. This concomitancy deserves further attention and may lead to changes in how we manage cervical epidural injection patients who are found to have CSF leak and a spinal epidural hematoma.

Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak still represents the main limitation of endonasal endoscopic surgery. The aim of the study is to classify the risk of postoperative leak and to propose a decision-making protocol to be applied in the preoperative phase based on radiological data and on intraoperative findings to obtain the best closure.One hundred fifty-two patients were treated in our institution; these patients were divided into 2 groups because from January 2013 the closure technique was standardized adopting a preoperative decision-making protocol. The Postoperative CSF leak Risk Classification (PCRC) was estimated taking into account the size of the lesion, the extent of the osteodural defect, and the presence of intraoperative CSF leak (iCSF-L). The closure techniques were classified into 3 types according to PCRC estimation (A, B, and C).The incidence of the use of a nasoseptal flap is significantly increased in the second group 80.3% versus 19.8% of the first group and the difference was statistically significant P < 0.0001. The incidence of postoperative CSF leak (pCSF-L) in the first group was 9.3%. The incidence of postoperative pCSF-L in the second group was 1.5%. An analysis of the pCSF-L rate in the 2 groups showed a statistically significant difference P = 0.04.The type of closure programmed was effective in almost all patients, allowing to avoid the possibility of a CSF leak. Our protocol showed a significant total reduction in the incidence of CSF leak, but especially in that subgroup of patients where a leak is usually unexpected.

A variety of neurosurgical disorders affect the anterior cranial base and require an anterior cranial fossa approach. As neurosurgeons, we usually deal with the treatment of benign neoplasms, in particular meningiomas. Nonetheless, other common neurosurgical pathologies include traumatic injuries, craniofacial malformations (i.e., hypertelorism, craniosynostosis), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulas, and vascular lesions (i.e., arterio-venous fistulas). Although surgery of benign lesions of the anterior cranial fossa is a relatively common procedure, tumors like meningiomas can reach huge sizes and encase vital neurovascular structures, making surgery in the area a real challenge. Furthermore, the anterior cranial base is also involved by malignant tumors. With some notable exceptions (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, metastases), malignant neoplasms are treated surgically but require adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy. Malignant lesions are generally challenging lesions that require a multidisciplinary approach to achieve an en bloc resection with margins of uninvolved tissue after broad circumferential exposure whenever possible.1 Indications for surgical treatment of malignant tumors are influenced by the extent of the lesion taken together with clinical data, including age and performance. Surgical morbidity must be weighed against the anticipated natural course of the lesion and results of nonsurgical treatments, when applicable. Here we briefly describe the transcranial approaches to the anterior cranial fossa and discuss complications commonly encountered in anterior cranial fossa surgery and their avoidance.

Introduction Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulae can be a challenging neurosurgical disease, often requiring complicated surgical intervention. Case Presentation A 54-year-old man presented with a gunshot wound to the head with complex injury to the skull base and significant CSF leakage from multiple sites. A single surgery was performed using a combined Neurosurgery, Neurotology, and Rhinology team, which was successful in repairing the multiple skull base defects and preventing further CSF leak. Discussion Trauma to the skull base is a common inciting factor for the development of CSF fistulae. Endoscopic approaches are often preferred for repairing these defects, but craniotomy remains a viable option that may be required in more complex cases. A combined approach has not been described previously, but was successful for this severe multifocal defect. Conclusion A multidisciplinary approach allowed for a combined intervention that addressed both the anterior and middle fossae fistulae simultaneously. This limited the potential infectious complications of continued CSF leak and allowed for early rehabilitation.

International audience; Frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid leaks are rare and their surgical management is difficult. Up until recently, they could only be treated by open surgery with an osteoplastic flap. With the development of endoscopic surgery, less invasive techniques such as an exclusive endoscopic approach can now be used, ensuring a simpler postoperative course. However, these techniques require a thorough knowledge of frontal sinus anatomy and endoscopic CSF leak repair. This knowledge is essential both to ensure closure of the CSF leak and to preserve frontal sinus patency.

• Giant prolactinomas occur more frequently in males than females and are potentially invasive.

Background Community-acquired gram-negative bacillary meningitis is rare to occur without preexisting conditions like trauma, organ dysfunction, and immunocompromised state, and very few case reports with Escherichia coli have been described in literature till now. Presence of ventriculitis along with meningitis makes the incidence further sparse. Case presentation A review of literature identified a total of only 45 community-acquired E. coli meningitis from 1945 till to date. Here, we have described a case of community-acquired E. coli meningitis with ventriculitis in an adult with past history of completely repaired CSF leak secondary to trauma nearly 23 years ago, without current radiological evidence of persistent CSF leak and therefore described as spontaneously acquired. Post-contrast T1 images of MRI were suggestive of subtle ependymal enhancement of ventricles, and patient was treated in lines of ventriculitis. Initial CSF was suggestive of acute pyogenic meningitis, and the organism grown was pan-sensitive E. coli. Patient was treated with antibiotics according to the culture sensitivity pattern and was given a prolonged course of 6 weeks of antibiotic therapy in view of ventriculitis. Conclusion Community-acquired E. coli meningitis with possible ventriculitis in adults is described as a rare entity and is likely to be underrated and under-recognized.

A major problem of surgery for intradural spinal tumors (IST) is the occurrence in the post-operative period of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. To the best of our knowledge, here we report on the largest series of IST patients in whom the TachoSil® associated to fibrin glue was used as dural sealant in this kind of surgery. Moreover, we extensively reviewed the literature reporting the results of TachoSil® in spine surgery. The data of 35 consecutive surgically treated IST patients were reviewed. In all cases TachoSil® associated with fibrin glue was used as dural sealant. Mean age was 58.14 ± 15.56 years and mean follow-up (FU) was 23.20 ± 9.76 months. The Modified McCormick Scale (MMS) was used to assess the functional status of patients pre-operatively and at latest FU. All article dealing with the use of TachoSil® in spine surgery were included in the literature review. A CSF collection (treated conservatively with needle aspiration and bed rest with no consequence) was observed only in 1 out of 35 cases. No wound infection nor adverse reaction to the TachoSil® occurred during the FU. At latest FU we observed an improvement of MMS grade in 23 patients (65.71%) and a stable functional status in 12 cases (34.28%). According to our experience and the literature review using the TachoSil® after dural closure is safe and effective in IST surgery. Better standardized studies are needed to establish the usefulness of TachoSil® for incidental dural tear in degenerative spine surgery.

Background: Intradural disc herniations (IDH) are rare, particularly in the cervical spine, where they account for less than 5% of all discs. Adhesions between the ossified/calcified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), dura, and ossified/calcified disc herniations increase the complexity of resecting these cervical lesions. Case Description: A 42-year-old male presented with a rapidly progressive cervical myelopathy over a 2-month period. This was attributed to an ossified/calcified intradural cervical disc herniation in conjunction with OPLL. The anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) resulted in a dural defect but there was no cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula as the arachnoid membrane remained intact. Had there been a CSF leak, it would have warranted both wound-peritoneal (WP) and lumbo-peritoneal shunts (LP). The surgeons should have anticipated that a CSF leak would likely occur prior to performing the ACDF, and should have prophylactically prepared and draped the abdomen for a potential WP, followed by a LP shunt. Three months postoperatively, the patient's proprioceptive deficit improved, and he almost completely recovered motor function. Conclusion: Performing an ACDF for resection of an intradural calcified/ossified disc with OPLL often results in both a dural defect and CSF fistula. As the arachnoid membrane rarely remains intact, the spine surgeon should be prepared to immediately perform both a WP shunt, and subsequently, an LP. In this case, following an ACDF, resection of an intradural ossified disc with OPLL resulted in an isolated dural defect without a CSF fistula and did not require no dural repair or shunting procedures.