Endoscopic CSF Leak Closure

Cerebrospinal fluid leaks or encephaloceles may occur as a result of trauma, obesity, high intracranial pressure as well as unknown causes. Patient's typically experience clear drainage from one nostril which is worsened with bending, exercise and straining. Cerebrospinal fluid leaks may cause serious complications such as meningitis (inflammation of the brain membranes) or pneumocephalus (air in the brain). Traditionally, these leaks were repaired using large skull incisions, making bone flaps, retracting the brain, finding the leak and repairing it. Newer, minimally invasive endoscopic techniques allow the surgeon's to find and repair these leaks through the patient's nose, and natural opening, thus avoiding skull incisions. Patient's typically experience fewer complications, decreased pain, and leave the hospital quicker with the use of these techniques.