ENDOSCOPIC CLOSURE OF POSTSURGICAL ANTERIOR CRANIAL FOSSA CEREBROSPINAL-FLUID LEAKS

OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study is to present an altern ative technique to closure of anterior cranial fossa cerebrospinal flu id (CSF) leaks. This study also serves to review our experience with o ur technique and presents some technical ''tricks'' we have learned th rough experience. METHODS: The design of this study is a clinical char t review. The setting is an academic medical center. RESULTS: Eight pa tients were referred for closure of postsurgical CSF leaks. Seven of e ight patients underwent closure with one attempt and closure was achie ved after a second attempt in one patient. Follow-up ranged from 1.5 t o 4.0 years. There were no complications. No patient developed an acut e or delayed episode of meningitis. CONCLUSION: The technique of endos copic closure of a CSF leak is a safe and effective means for closure of a postsurgical anterior cranial fossa CSF fistula when performed by an experienced operator.