What is a cerebrospinal fluid?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the clear, watery that surrounds our brain. If there is a weakness in the bone and tissue that separates the nose and the brain, cerebrospinal fluid can leak into the nose. The specific causes can vary, however, the condition can be life-threatening if not treated in a timely matter.
How is a repair of a cerebrospinal spinal (CSF) leak performed?
Repair of a CSF leak is always performed in the operating room under general anesthesia. An endoscope is used to perform the surgery, just like sinus surgery. The specific location of the leak is identified and lining of the nose around the leak is gently removed. Depending on the severity of the leak, multilayered technique may be utilized to patch the hole. This involves using other healthy areas of the nose, either adjacent to the hole or grafted from another portion of the nose. The nose is then generously packed to ensure the flap or graft remains firmly in place during the healing process. An overnight stay in the hospital should be anticipated. If the CSF leak is considered very large, or if your CSF pressure was much higher than normal, a lumbar drain may be required to keep the CSF pressure low during the healing process. Afterwards, you will follow up in the clinic for post-operative debridements to clean out the remaining packing.
