Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society

The Korean Neurosurgical Society (대한신경외과학회)
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Diffuse Pneumocephalus : A Rare Complication of Spinal Surgery

  • Yun, Jung-Ho (Department of Neurosurgery, Dankook University Medical College) ;
  • Kim, Young-Jin (Department of Neurosurgery, Dankook University Medical College) ;
  • Yoo, Dong-Soo (Department of Radiology, Dankook University Medical College) ;
  • Ko, Jung-Ho (Department of Neurosurgery, Konyang University Hospital)
  • Received : 2010.10.25
  • Accepted : 2010.08.03
  • Published : 2010.09.28
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Abstract

The common etiologies of pneumocephalus, presence of air in the intracranial cavity, are trauma and cranial surgery. Pneumocephalus after spinal surgery is an unusual postoperative complication. We report the case of a male 59-year-old man who developed a pneumacephalus after posterior lumbar surgery for spinal stenosis. Intraoperatively, a cerebrospinal fluid leak following a dural tear was noted and immediately repaired. The next day, the patient complained of headache and dizziness. Head and lumbar computed tomography scans revealed significant air in the frontal region, several cisterns, intraventricle, and extra-dural area in the spine canal. Symptoms were spontaneously resolved within 2 weeks with conservative management.

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References

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