Effect of lumbar drain placement on recurrence of cerebrospinal rhinorrhea after endoscopic repair

Traumatic CSF rhinorrhea associated with COVID-19 testing: a case series and systematic review

BACKGROUND

This report analyzes traumatic anterior skull base CSF leaks following nasopharyngeal swab testing for detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the largest case series to date, combined with a systematic literature review.

METHODS

Retrospective multi-institutional case-series of traumatic anterior skull base CSF leak with clear antecedent history of COVID-19 swab was completed. A comprehensive search of databases was performed for the systematic literature review.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients with traumatic CSF leak after COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swab testing were identified. Women were more than twice as likely to experience a CSF leak, as compared to men. The majority of patients (58.8%) had no reported predisposing factor in their clinical history. Common defect sites included the cribriform plate (52.9%), sphenoid sinus (29.4%), and ethmoid roof (17.6%). Four patients (11.8%) presented with meningitis. The median time between the traumatic COVID swab and the detection of CSF leak was 4 weeks (IQR 1-9). Patients with meningitis had a median leak duration of 12 weeks (IQR 8-18). The average leak duration was significantly longer in patients with meningitis compared to without meningitis (p = 0.029), with a moderate effect size (r = - 0.68). Most cases (92.9%) managed with endoscopic endonasal surgical repair were successful.

CONCLUSIONS

This report clarifies the presentation, risk factors, and management of CSF leaks attributable to diagnostic nasopharynx swabbing procedures in the COVID-19 era. Timely surgical repair is the recommended management option for such leaks.

American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement part 1: Skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery

The goal of this American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement (EPS) is to summarize the best available evidence for technical factors that optimize outcomes in skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery for intradural pathologies. These topics include the use of free mucosal grafts versus vascularized pedicled nasoseptal flaps; the use of autologous versus synthetic grafts; and the roles of lumbar drains, dural sealants, and nasal packing. This EPS was developed following the recommended methodology and approval process as previously outlined. As there are a myriad of techniques and limited agreement on the accepted principles of skull base reconstruction, this EPS aims to summarize the existing evidence and provide clinically meaningful guidance on these divergent practices. Following a modified Delphi approach, five statements were developed, four of which reached consensus and one of which reached near consensus. These statements and the accompanying evidence are summarized along with an assessment of future needs.

The Role of Lumbar Drains in the Perioperative Management of Primary Spontaneous Temporal Lobe Encephaloceles and Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of lumbar drains (LDs) in the success of spontaneous temporal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak and encephalocele repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary academic health system.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing repair of spontaneous temporal lobe encephaloceles or middle fossa CSF leaks during years 2017 to 2023.

INTERVENTIONS

Transmastoid, middle fossa craniotomy, or combination approaches to CSF leak repair.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Failure rate, complication rate, length of stay (LOS), readmission.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients were included, with a combination approach performed in 78.3%, transmastoid in 17.4%, and isolated middle fossa craniotomy in 4.3%. Mean body mass index was 33.2, mean bony defect size width was 6.51 mm, and defect locations included the epitympanum, antrum, mastoid, and petrous apex. Multilayer closure with three or more layers was performed in 87.0%. LD was used in 73.9% of cases for a mean duration 2.27 days and was associated with longer LOS (3.27 vs. 1.56 d, p = 0.006) but not with failure rate, complications, discharge destination, or readmission. Only one major complication occurred as a result of the drain, but low-pressure headache was anecdotally common.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of LD in the repair of spontaneous CSF leaks and temporal lobe encephaloceles is associated with longer LOS but not failure rates or other admission-level outcomes.

Anterior and Lateral Skull Base Spontaneous CSF Leaks: Evaluation of Comorbidities and Treatment Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients diagnosed with anterior (ASB) or lateral skull base (LSB) spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (sCSF) leak.

METHODS

Single center retrospective review of patients diagnosed with sCSF leaks of ASB or LSB between 1/1/2009 and 11/1/2019 (n = 69). Body mass index (BMI), gender, age at diagnosis, origin of CSF leak (ASB vs LSB), surgical approach, lumbar drain use, recurrence, pre-operative diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were collected.

RESULTS

69 patients included in this study met criteria for sCSF leak without a traumatic or iatrogenic cause (Female: 51 (74%); average BMI: 37.0 ± 7.9). Forty-eight (70.0%) presented with sCSF leaks of the lateral skull base. All ASB leaks were treated with an endoscopic transnasal approach. Eleven (22.9%) LSB leak patients were treated using transmastoid approaches and 35 (72.9%) patients with a middle cranial fossa approach. Eleven patients (15.9%) reported sCSF leak recurrence. Two patients (9.5%) with anterior skull base and 9 patients (18.8%) with lateral skull base leaks had recurrence. LSB sCSF leaks had a relative risk of 2.192 of recurrence compared to ASB leaks (95% CI: 0.431-11.157, P = .483). A 5.017 times increased risk (95% CI: 1.285-19.583, P = .020) was reported for patients with OSA, while the risks for DM and BMI were 1.351 (95% CI: 0.67-9.105, P = .177) and 1.026 (95% CI: 0.963-1.094, P = .426) respectively. Patients with sCSF leak recurrence had significantly lower lumbar drain use (33.3%) than those without recurrence (72.7%) (P = .049).

CONCLUSION

Spontaneous CSF leak recurrence is complex and multifactorial, and while patients with both DM and OSA had the higher risk of recurrence, OSA is likely an independent clinical risk factor for sCSF leak recurrence in this patient population.

Optic nerve sheath diameter correlates to intracranial pressure in spontaneous CSF leak patients

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (sCSF) leaks develop from pressure erosion due to idiopathic intracranial hypertension, treatment of which is paramount to preventing recurrence. Direct measurements of intracranial pressure (ICP) for monitoring response to treatment via lumbar drain (LD) or ventriculostomy are invasive and have risks. The objectives of this study are to determine whether ultrasonographic measurements of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) correlate with LD ICP in patients with sCSF leaks undergoing treatment, and whether ONSDs are larger in patients with sCSF leaks than controls.

METHODS

Subjects with sCSF leaks and controls were prospectively recruited. ONSD, sex, and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. For sCSF leak subjects, ultrasonography was performed at the time of LD opening and each pressure check postoperatively, including the acetazolamide response. In control patients, measurements were obtained at the time of surgery. Pearson's correlation between ONSD and ICP was performed.

RESULTS

Subjects with sCSF leaks (n = 9, age 52.4 ± 9.5, all female) and controls (n = 8, age 60.1 ± 14.8, two females) had significantly different BMIs, 38.4 ± 8.1 vs. 29.2 ± 4.8, t(15) = 2.793, p = 0.014. ONSD was strongly correlated with ICP measurements (r = 0.583, p = 0.002). However, percentage change in ONSD and ICP measurements were more strongly correlated (r = 0.733, p < 0.001). Patients with sCSF leaks had significantly higher ONSDs than controls, 0.63 cm ± 0.044 vs. 0.56 cm ± 0.074, t(15) = 2.329, p = 0.034.

CONCLUSION

ONSD significantly correlated with ICP in sCSF leak patients and was wider in sCSF leak subjects than controls. Ultrasonography has utility in monitoring the ICP response to acetazolamide.

Management of recurrent cerebrospinal fluid leak, current practices and open challenges. A systematic literature review

Cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSFL) is a rare pathological condition which requires prompt and adequate management due to the high rate of associated major complications. At present, CSFL can be successfully treated through endoscopic endonasal approaches with success rates higher than 90%. Despite this, CSFL recurrence may occur, and its management is critical and still represents a matter of debate. A systematic review of the literature on the management of recurrent CSFL was conducted. It included a cohort of 1,083 cases of CSFL treated with surgical or conservative approaches; 112 cases of recurrence were reported for an overall recurrence rate of 10.3%. Most of the leaks were localised in the anterior skull base (68.3%) and identification of recurrent CSFL may be troublesome. Therefore, the entire skull base must be meticulously examined and long-term follow-up is mandatory. The risk for CSFL recurrence is higher in patients affected by idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), but its role in CSFL recurrence is yet to be understood. Recurrent CSFL must be repaired as soon as possible in order to reduce the risk of intracranial complications. The use of early post-operative CSF diversion by lumbar drain (LD) is currently a matter of debate even in case of CSFL recurrences.

Postoperative protocols following endoscopic skull base surgery: An evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Postoperative management strategies for endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) vary widely because of limited evidence-based guidance.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from January 1990 through February 2022 to examine 18 postoperative considerations for ESBS. Nonhuman studies, articles written in a language other than English, and case reports were excluded. Studies were assessed for levels of evidence, and each topic's aggregate grade of evidence was evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 74 studies reporting on 18 postoperative practices were reviewed. Postoperative pain management, prophylactic antibiotics, and lumbar drain use had the highest grades of evidence (B). The literature currently lacks high quality evidence for a majority of the reviewed ESBS precautions. There were no relevant studies to address postoperative urinary catheter use and medical intracranial pressure reduction.

CONCLUSION

The evidence for postoperative ESBS precautions is heterogeneous, scarce, and generally of low quality. Although this review identified the best evidence available in the literature, it suggests the urgent need for more robust evidence. Therefore, additional high-quality studies are needed in order to devise optimal postoperative ESBS protocols.

[Diagnostic value of computed tomographic cisternography and magnetic resonance hydrography in cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea]

Objective:To evaluate the accuracy of preoperative computed tomographic cisternography（CTC） and magnetic resonance hydrography（MRH）in the diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid（CSF） rhinorrhea. Methods:Retrospective analysis was made on the data of 38 patients diagnosed as cerebrospinal rhinorrhea who completed preoperative HRCT, CTC and MRH examinations in the Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery of Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from October 2016 to January 2022. The diagnostic accuracy of preoperative imaging examinations was compared according to the leak location found during operation. Results:Among all the 38 cases with CSF rhinorrhea, the detection rates of HRCT, CTC, and cranial MRH were 31.58%, 89.47%, and 60.53%, respectively. The accuracy of CTC was significantlyhigher than that of MRH （ χ²=8.49, P=0.007）, and the accuracy of MRH was significantly higher than that of HRCT （χ²=6.41, P=0.01）. Subgroup analyses were performed according to the precise positioning of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea leakage. In patients with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea located in ethmoid sinus, the accuracy of CTC（80.95% vs. 14.29%，P<0.01）and MRH（52.38% vs. 14.29%，P=0.02）were significantly higher than that of HRCT, but the accuracy but the difference between CTC and MRH between CTC and MRH was not statistically significant （P=0.10）. The accuracy of CTC was significantly higher than that of MRH （100.00% vs. 61.54%, P=0.04） and HRCT （100.00% vs. 53.85%, P<0.01） in patients with CSF rhinorrhea located in sphenoid sinus. However, there was no significant difference in the accuracy between MRH and HRCT （ P=1.00）. However, There was no significant difference in the accuracy of CTC, MRH and HRCT in patients with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea located in frontal sinus. The accuracy of CTC and MRH was 84.62% and 57.69% respectively in 26 patients who failed to detect a CSF rhinorrhea by HRCT, and the difference was not statistically significant（χ²=4.59, P=0.06）. Conclusion:The comprehensive application of the multiple imaging methods has important guiding significance for the accurate treatment and prognosis evaluation. CTC and MRH could improve the accuracy of the localization diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea.

[The value of magnetic resonance hydrography in the localization of fistula in patients with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea]

Objective:To evaluate the application value of magnetic resonance hydrography in determine the leak location of patients with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. Methods:Clinical data of 58 patients with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea treated in Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from February 2015 to February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The leak position was judged by three methods: nasal sinus coronal CT, magnetic resonance hydrography and magnetic resonance hydrography combined with nasal sinus coronal CT. The consistency of the leak position among groups determined by different imageological examination pre-operation was compared with the real leak position found during the operation. Results:The positive rate of magnetic resonance hydrography combined with coronal CT in paranasal sinuses（91.4%） was significantly higher than that of magnetic resonance hydrography（74.1%）（P>0.05）. The positive rate of magnetic resonance hydrography（74.1%） was higher than that of CT（43.1%）（P>0.01）. Conclusion:The comprehensive application of imaging examination technology has important clinical guiding significance for the correct diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. Magnetic resonance hydrography combined with coronal CT of paranasal sinus can effectively find the leak location, which was suggested as the first choice for preoperative localization of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea.

Sinonasal Packing is Not a Requisite for Successful Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair

Background Numerous methods have been described to repair nasal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Most studies have focused on optimizing CSF leak repair success, leading to closure rates of 90 to 95%.

Objective This study aimed to determine if excellent reconstruction rates could be achieved without using sinonasal packing.

Methods A prospective case series of 73 consecutive patients with various CSF leak etiologies and skull base defects was conducted to evaluate reconstruction success without sinonasal packing. The primary outcome measure was postoperative CSF leak. Secondary outcome measures were postoperative epistaxis requiring intervention in operating room or emergency department, infectious sinusitis, and 22-item sinonasal outcome test (SNOT-22) changes.

Results Mean age was 54.5 years and 64% were female. Multilayered reconstructions were performed in 55.3% of cases, with collagen or bone epidural inlay grafts, and nasal mucosal grafts or nasoseptal flaps for onlay layers. Onlay-only reconstructions with mucosal grafts or nasoseptal flaps were performed in 44.7% of cases. Tissue sealants were used in all cases, and lumbar drains were used in 40.8% of cases. There were two initial failures (97.4% initial success), but both resolved with lumbar drains alone (no revision surgeries). There were no instances of postoperative epistaxis requiring intervention in the operating room or emergency department. Infectious sinusitis occurred in 2.7% of patients in the first 3 months postoperatively. SNOT-22 did not change significantly from preoperatively to first postoperative visits, then improved over time.

Conclusion Nasal CSF leaks from various etiologies and defect sites were successfully repaired without using sinonasal packing, and patients experienced minimal sinonasal morbidity.

An Expedited Intracranial Pressure Monitoring Protocol Following Spontaneous CSF Leak Repair

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks represent a unique subset of skull base pathology and require distinctive management. Perioperative evaluation and management of intracranial hypertension are essential in preventing further erosion of the skull base and development of recurrent leak. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and utility of an expedited protocol for recording and managing intracranial hypertension following endoscopic repair of spontaneous CSF leaks.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data was reviewed in patients undergoing endoscopic repair of spontaneous CSF leaks between January 2017 and March 2020. A standard intracranial pressure monitoring protocol was compared to an expedited protocol (EP), and data regarding the two groups was compared for leak location, short-term success of skull base repair, complications, hospital length of stay, and cost-based analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients (standard protocol, n = 28 vs. EP, n = 27) were included in the study. Leak location was similar between cohorts, with the lateral recess being the most common locations in both groups (37.9% vs. 40.6%; P = .90). Postoperative complications (3.6% vs. 7.4%; P = .53) and ventriculoperitoneal shunt rate (32.1% vs. 22.2%; P = .41) were similar among cohorts. There was no difference in lumbar drain complications (0% vs. 7.4%; P = .14) or recurrent leak (7.1% vs. 0%; P = .16). Length of stay was shorter in the EP group [median(interquartile range): 3(1) vs. 2 (1); P < .01]. Total hospital charges were similar between groups (median (USD/$1,000): 83.57 ± 49.58 vs. 83.93 ± 46.11; P = .18).

CONCLUSION

An expedited monitoring protocol shortened hospital stay without increased risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III Laryngoscope, 131:E408-E412, 2021.

Do Most Patients With a Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Have Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension?

BACKGROUND

The association between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks at the skull base and raised intracranial pressure (ICP) has been reported since the 1960s. It has been suggested that spontaneous CSF leaks might represent a variant of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). We review the evidence regarding the association between spontaneous CSF leaks and IIH, and the role of ICP in the pathophysiology of nontraumatic skull base defects. We also discuss the management of ICP in the setting of CSF leaks and IIH.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

References were identified by searches of PubMed from 1955 to September 2018 with the terms "idiopathic intracranial hypertension" and "cerebrospinal fluid leak." Additional references were identified using the terms "pseudotumor cerebri," "intracranial hypertension," "benign intracranial hypertension," and by hand search of relevant articles.

RESULTS

A CSF leak entails the egress of CSF from the subarachnoid spaces of the skull base into the surrounding cavitary structures. Striking overlaps exist regarding demographic, clinical, and radiological characteristics between IIH patients and those with spontaneous CSF leaks, suggesting that some (if not most) of these patients have IIH. However, determining whether a patient with spontaneous CSF leak may have IIH may be difficult, as signs and symptoms of raised ICP may be obviated by the leak. The pathophysiology is unknown but might stem from progressive erosion of the thin bone of the skull base by persistent pulsatile high CSF pressure. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the management of ICP after spontaneous CSF leak repair when IIH is suspected.

CONCLUSIONS

IIH is becoming more widely recognized as a cause of spontaneous CSF leaks, but the causal relationship remains poorly characterized. Systematic evaluation and follow-up of patients with spontaneous CSF leaks by neuro-ophthalmologists will help clarify the relation between IIH and spontaneous CSF leaks.

ICAR: endoscopic skull-base surgery

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic skull-base surgery (ESBS) is employed in the management of diverse skull-base pathologies. Paralleling the increased utilization of ESBS, the literature in this field has expanded rapidly. However, the rarity of these diseases, the inherent challenges of surgical studies, and the continued learning curve in ESBS have resulted in significant variability in the quality of the literature. To consolidate and critically appraise the available literature, experts in skull-base surgery have produced the International Consensus Statement on Endoscopic Skull-Base Surgery (ICAR:ESBS).

METHODS

Using previously described methodology, topics spanning the breadth of ESBS were identified and assigned a literature review, evidence-based review or evidence-based review with recommendations format. Subsequently, each topic was written and then reviewed by skull-base surgeons in both neurosurgery and otolaryngology. Following this iterative review process, the ICAR:ESBS document was synthesized and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICAR:ESBS document addresses the role of ESBS in primary cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, intradural tumors, benign skull-base and orbital pathology, sinonasal malignancies, and clival lesions. Additionally, specific challenges in ESBS including endoscopic reconstruction and complication management were evaluated.

CONCLUSION

A critical review of the literature in ESBS demonstrates at least the equivalency of ESBS with alternative approaches in pathologies such as CSF rhinorrhea and pituitary adenoma as well as improved reconstructive techniques in reducing CSF leaks. Evidence-based recommendations are limited in other pathologies and these significant knowledge gaps call upon the skull-base community to embrace these opportunities and collaboratively address these shortcomings.

Role of Adjunct Treatments for Idiopathic CSF Leaks After Endoscopic Repair

OBJECTIVE

A higher incidence of recurrent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks has been reported with idiopathic CSF leaks. A growing number of institutions advocate for routine use of intracranial pressure-lowering adjunct treatments after endoscopic repair. We report our results in a patient cohort in which only symptomatic patients are subjected to further testing and treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent endoscopic transnasal repair of idiopathic CSF rhinorrhea was performed at the University of Miami, Florida, from July 2010 to July 2017. The database was queried for demographical data, surgical details, radiological findings, and postoperative outcomes. Only patients with greater than a 12-month follow-up were included.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients underwent endoscopic repair of an idiopathic CSF leak. Twenty-six (79%) were females, with an average age of entire study population being 48 years. The average body mass index (BMI) of the cohort was 33 kg/m² , with 89% being overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m² ). The skull base defect was found to be mainly at the cribriform plate (64%) and sphenoid sinus (30%). Endoscopic repair was performed successfully as a single repair in 32 patients (97%). The average follow-up was 47 months. Postoperative adjunct medications were used on four patients (12%) with symptomatic idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic repair of idiopathic CSF leaks was found to have a high rate of success in our study. Postoperatively, only four patients required additional measures to medically reduce symptomatic intracranial hypertension. Routine postoperative adjunct treatments are unnecessary and may expose patients to adverse long-term side effects.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:41-47, 2021.

A Systematic Review of Secondary Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks

Background

Secondary cerebrospinal leaks (CSF) are leaks that recur after an initial endoscopic repair of CSF leaks. Identification of characteristics that could predict secondary leaks may allow surgeons to plan repairs with the knowledge that these defects are more likely to fail.

Objective

To identify characteristics that could predict secondary CSF leaks.

Methods

A search of all studies that reported outcomes after endoscopic repair of CSF leaks was conducted by using medical literature data bases. Studies with the following criteria were included: written in the English language, secondary CSF leaks after primary repair, and assessment of success of fistula repair. Data extracted included the etiology of the leak, site of the leak, reconstructive materials used, and success of the repair.

Results

Ninety-four studies, from 1988 to 2015, with a total of 3149 primary CSF leaks were included. Sixty-three studies (67%) had a success rate of ≥80%; 77 studies (82%) had secondary leak rates of <40%. For 88 of the 94 studies (94%), the success rate after secondary repair improved to 81.0–100%. Of 48 studies that included leaks of more than one site, the sphenoid was the most common site of leak in 26 studies (55%), the ethmoid was the most common site in 16 studies (34%), and the cribriform was the most common site in 11 studies (23%).

Conclusion

The rate of secondary CSF leaks was low due to advances in endoscopic repair techniques. Spontaneous and iatrogenic CSF leaks were more likely to recur, especially without adequate control of underlying factors, such as increased intracranial pressure and obesity. Further studies with consistent reporting are required for more definitive conclusions about secondary CSF leaks.

Role of lumbar drains in contemporary endonasal skull base surgery: Meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Historically, lumbar drains (LD) have played a prominent role in endonasal skull base surgery. Over the past few decades, advancements in techniques have augmented our ability to successfully reconstruct complex skull base defects and often obviates the need for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion. Clarity on the appropriate use of LDs is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the literature for the need for LDs in contemporary skull base reconstruction after resection of skull base tumors.

METHODS

A systematic literature review of English language articles by using PubMed and Ovid. Search terms included "lumbar drain," "CSF leak," and "endoscopic endonasal reconstruction." Articles were included when they pertained to adults, used current methods for reconstruction (i.e., multilayered repair or vascularized tissue), and addressed CSF leak rates secondary to endoscopic resection of skull base masses. All the studies discussed CSF leaks that resulted from traumatic-, idiopathic-, or sinus surgery-related iatrogenic causes were excluded. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed.

RESULTS

A total of five articles met inclusion criteria. These comprised 376 endoscopic skull base tumor resection and reconstruction cases; 5.59% developed postoperative CSF leaks. A meta-analysis was conducted by incorporating three studies that met criteria based on testing for heterogeneity. The average odds ratio for postoperative CSF leak for patients who did not have an LD relative to patients who had an LD was 0.590 (95% confidence interval, 0.214-1.630). Given a p value of 0.30, the results demonstrated a lack of statistically significant improvement between patients who had an LD and patients who did not have an LD. Various details, such as the defect size and type of CSF leak, were not consistently reported among studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Available evidence for the use of LDs in skull base surgery is of poor quality. Analysis of the literature revealed heterogenous and varied reporting in the primary literature. Further studies that include randomized controlled trials are needed.

Surgical repair of spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks: A systematic review

Objectives

To review the safety and efficacy of surgical management for spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks of the anterior and lateral skull base.

Data Sources

A systematic review of English articles using MEDLINE.

Review Methods

Search terms included spontaneous, CSF, cerebrospinal fluid, endoscopic, middle fossa, transmastoid, leak, rhinorrhea. Independent extraction of articles by 3 authors.

Results

Patients with spontaneous CSF leaks are often obese (average BMI of 38 kg/m²) and female (72%). Many patients also have obstructive sleep apnea (∼45%) and many have elevated intracranial pressure when measured by lumbar puncture. In addition to thinning of the skull base, radiographic studies also demonstrate cortical bone thinning. Endoscopic surgical repair of anterior skull base leaks and middle cranial fossa (MCF) approach for repair of lateral skull base leaks are safe and effective with an average short‐term failure rate of 9% and 6.5%, respectively. Long‐term failure rates are low. One randomized trial failed to show improved success of anterior leak repairs with the use of a lumbar drain (LD) (95% with vs. 92% without; P = 0.2). In a large retrospective cohort of MCF lateral skull base repairs, perioperative LD use was not necessary in >94% of patients.

Conclusions

Spontaneous CSF leaks are associated with female gender, obesity, increased intracranial hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea. Endoscopic repair of anterior skull base leaks and MCF or transmastoid approaches for lateral skull base leaks have a high success rate of repair. In most cases, intraoperative placement of lumbar drain did not appear to result in improved success rates for either anterior or lateral skull base leaks.

Level of Evidence

2a, Systematic Review.

Outcomes of Endoscopic Repair of Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea without Lumbar Drains

Objective

Lumbar drains (LD) are commonly used during endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, either to facilitate graft healing or to monitor CSF fluid dynamics. However, the indications and necessity of LD placement remains controversial. The current study sought to evaluate endoscopic CSF leak repair outcomes in the setting of limited LD use.

Methods

Patients who underwent endoscopic repair of CSF rhinorrhea between 2004 and 2014 were identified by a review of medical records. Demographic and clinical data were extracted and compared between patients who had surgery with and patients who had surgery without a perioperative LD. A univariate analysis was performed to identify factors predictive of recurrence.

Results

A total of 107 patients (116 surgical procedures) were identified, with a mean follow-up of 15.8 months. Eighty-eight of 107 patients (82.2%) had surgery without an LD. The mean hospital stay was 4.48 days in the LD group versus 1.03 days in the non-LD group (p ≤ 0.00001). There was no difference in recurrence rate between the LD and non-LD groups. Predictors of recurrence included repair technique (p = 0.04) and size of defect (p = 0.005). Body mass index, leak site (ethmoid, sphenoid, frontal), and etiology (spontaneous, iatrogenic, traumatic) were not predictive of leak recurrence.

Conclusion

Use of LDs in endoscopic CSF leak repair was not associated with reduced recurrence rates, regardless of leak etiology, and resulted in a significant increase in hospital length of stay. Although the use of perioperative LDs to monitor CSF dynamics may have some therapeutic and diagnostic advantages, it may not be associated with clinically significant improvements in patient outcomes or recurrence rates.

Updates in anterior skull base reconstruction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article summarizes the indications and surgical techniques for the reconstructions of anterior skull base defects.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is increasing popularity of the vascularized pedicled flaps in endoscopic skull base surgery for the successful reconstruction of anterior skull base defects, compared with the use of free-tissue grafts. The location and size of the defect as well as the rate of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow are important considerations for selection of the most appropriate reconstructive approach. Recent literature provides evidence suggesting that pedicled flaps may be more effective for clival defects and high-flow CSF leaks, potentially reducing the incidence of postoperative CSF leaks. Although the nasoseptal flap (NSF) continues to be the mainstay of endoscopic skull base reconstruction, alternative vascularized flaps exist when the NSF is impractical or unavailable, and new surgical approaches continue to evolve.

SUMMARY

Vascularized pedicled flaps, and especially the NSF, have greatly reduced complications associated with endoscopic skull base surgery. Multiple considerations should be taken into account during closure of skull base defects, and several options are available to accommodate different needs.

Efficacy of Perioperative Lumbar Drainage following Endonasal Endoscopic Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair: A Meta-analysis

Objective

Perioperative lumbar drain (LD) use in the setting of endoscopic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair is a well-established practice. However, recent data suggest that LDs may not provide significant benefit and may thus confer unnecessary risk. To examine this, we conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the effect of LDs on postoperative CSF leak recurrence following endoscopic repair of CSF rhinorrhea.

Data Sources

A comprehensive search was performed with the following databases: Ovid MEDLINE (1947 to November 2015), EMBASE (1974 to November 2015), Cochrane Review, and PubMed (1990 to November 2015).

Review Method

A meta-analysis was performed according to PRISMA guidelines.

Results

A total of 1314 nonduplicate studies were identified in our search. Twelve articles comprising 508 cases met inclusion criteria. Overall, use of LDs was not associated with significantly lower postoperative CSF leak recurrence rates following endoscopic repair of CSF rhinorrhea (odds ratio: 0.89, 95% confidence interval: 0.40-1.95) as compared with cases performed without LDs. Subgroup analysis of only CSF leaks associated with anterior skull base resections (6 studies, 153 cases) also demonstrated that lumbar drainage did not significantly affect rates of successful repair (odds ratio: 2.67, 95% confidence interval: 0.64-11.10).

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to support that adjunctive lumbar drainage significantly reduces postoperative CSF leak recurrence in patients undergoing endoscopic CSF leak repair. Subgroup analysis examining only those patients whose CSF leaks were associated with anterior skull base resections demonstrated similar results. More level 1 and 2 studies are needed to further investigate the efficacy of LDs, particularly in the setting of patients at high risk for CSF leak recurrence.

Postoperative Low-Flow Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak of Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Adenoma--Wait and See, or Lumbar Drain?

To assess the effectiveness of continuous lumbar drainage (LD) for management of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks after endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach for resection of pituitary adenoma. Three hundred eighty-four medical records of patients who were admitted to our institute during a 2.5-year period were retrospectively reviewed, 33 of them experienced low-flow cerebrospinal fluid leak postoperatively. If LD was used, all patients with low-flow cerebrospinal fluid leak were classified into 2 groups, lumbar drained group and conservatively treated group. The age, sex, management of cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and related complications were reviewed. Statistical comparisons between the 2 groups were made using SPSS 19.0 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). The differences were considered statistically significant if the P value was less than 0.05.Thirty-three of 384 (8.6%) experienced low-flow postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Cured rate of cerebrospinal fluid leak was 94.4% (17/18) in continuous lumbar drained group, and 93.3% (14/15) in control group. There were 2 (11.2%) patients who developed meningitis in the LD group and 1 (5.6%) patient in the control group. One patient required endoscopic repair of skull base because of persistent cerebrospinal fluid leak in both groups, with the rates of 5.6% and 6.7%, respectively. There was no significant difference noted in each rate in both groups.Placement of LD may not be necessary for the management of low-flow postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak after using endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach to pituitary adenoma.

Comprehensive review on endonasal endoscopic sinus surgery

Endonasal endoscopic sinus surgery is the standard procedure for surgery of most paranasal sinus diseases. Appropriate frame conditions provided, the respective procedures are safe and successful. These prerequisites encompass appropriate technical equipment, anatomical oriented surgical technique, proper patient selection, and individually adapted extent of surgery. The range of endonasal sinus operations has dramatically increased during the last 20 years and reaches from partial uncinectomy to pansinus surgery with extended surgery of the frontal (Draf type III), maxillary (grade 3-4, medial maxillectomy, prelacrimal approach) and sphenoid sinus. In addition there are operations outside and beyond the paranasal sinuses. The development of surgical technique is still constantly evolving. This article gives a comprehensive review on the most recent state of the art in endoscopic sinus surgery according to the literature with the following aspects: principles and fundamentals, surgical techniques, indications, outcome, postoperative care, nasal packing and stents, technical equipment.

Management of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: an evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Management strategies employed for cases of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea vary widely because of limited evidence-based guidance.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from January 1990 through September 2014 to examine 5 endoscopic repair techniques and 8 perioperative management strategies for CSF rhinorrhea. Benefit-harm assessments, value judgments, and recommendations were made based on the available evidence. Study exclusion criteria were language other than English, pre-1990 studies, case reports, and nonrhinologic leak. All authors agreed on recommendations through an iterative process.

RESULTS

We reviewed 67 studies examining 13 practices pertinent to the management of CSF rhinorrhea, reaching a highest aggregate grade of evidence of B. The literature does not support the routine use of prophylactic antibiotics or lumbar drainage. Various endoscopic repair materials show similar success rates; however, larger defects may benefit from vascularized grafts. There were no relevant studies to address postoperative activity restrictions.

CONCLUSION

Despite relatively low levels of evidence, recommendations for the management of CSF rhinorrhea can be made based on the current literature. Higher-level studies are needed to better determine optimal clinical management approaches.

Bilateral meningoencephaloceles with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea after facial advancement in the Crouzon syndrome

BACKGROUND

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea and encephaloceles are rare complications of craniofacial advancement procedures performed in patients with craniofacial dysostoses (CD) to address the ramifications of their midface hypoplasia including obstructed nasal airway, exorbitism, and impaired mastication. Surgical repair of this CSF rhinorrhea is complicated by occult elevations in intracranial pressure (ICP), potentially necessitating open, transcranial repair. We report the first case in otolaryngology literature of a patient with Crouzon syndrome with late CSF rhinorrhea and encephalocele formation after previous LeFort III facial advancement surgery.

OBJECTIVES

Describe the case of a patient with Crouzon syndrome who presented with CSF rhinorrhea and encephaloceles as complications of Le Fort III facial advancement surgery. Review the literature pertaining to the incidence and management of post-operative CSF rhinorrhea and encephaloceles. Analyze issues related to repair of these complications, including occult elevations in ICP, the utility of perioperative CSF shunts, and the importance of considering alternative repair schemes to the traditional endonasal, endoscopic approach.

METHODS

Review of the literature describing CSF rhinorrhea and encephalocele formation following facial advancement in CD, focusing on management strategies.

RESULTS

CSF rhinorrhea and encephalocele formation are rare complications of craniofacial advancement procedures. Occult elevations in ICP complicate the prospect of permanent surgical repair, potentially necessitating transcranial repair and the use of CSF shunts. Though no consensus exists regarding the utility of perioperative CSF drains, strong associations exist between elevated ICP and failed surgical repair. Additionally, the anatomic changes in the frontal and ethmoid sinuses after facial advancement present a challenge to endoscopic repair.

CONCLUSION

Otolaryngologists should be aware of the possibility of occult elevations in ICP and sinonasal anatomic abnormalities when repairing CSF rhinorrhea in patients with CD. Clinicians should consider CSF shunt placement and carefully weigh the advantages of the transcranial approach versus endonasal, endoscopic techniques.

Neurologic Complications and Treatment

Risk is inherent with all surgical procedures. Most endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is uncomplicated. Among the many complications inherent with ESS are the neurologic complications, which include cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, traumatic soft tissue and vascular injuries, infection, and seizures. Despite intense review of a patient's preoperative scans, use of stereotactic image guidance, and an expert understanding of anatomy, neurologic complications occur. An understanding of these complications and how to manage them can help to reduce long-term patient injury as well as help prevent recurrence.

Effectiveness of lumbar drains on recurrence rates in endoscopic surgery of cerebrospinal fluid leaks

BACKGROUND

In cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage endoscopic repair, lumbar drains (LDs) were used in an attempt to increase success rates. To critically assess the relationship between use of LDs and recurrent leaks, we embarked on this randomized prospective study.

METHODS

Patients undergoing CSF leak repair between 2000 and 2012 were randomized into two groups: 75 patients were managed without LDs and in the other group of 75 patients an LD was always placed. Different parameters were analyzed to identify their relationship with failures: occurrence of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), body mass index, smoking habits, existence of diabetes, chronic corticosteroid use, previous sinus surgery, etiology (traumatic, iatrogenic, or spontaneous leak), site, and size of the CSF leak.

RESULTS

Success rate was 93% for the whole group. Patients managed with LDs attained 95% success rate and those without LD attained 92%; the difference is not significant (p = 0.2). The only factor predictive of recurrence is increased ICP: 77% success rate versus 97% for traumatic leaks and 96% for iatrogenic leaks. Recurrence rates were identical in the two groups with increased ICP, regardless of the use of a LD (23%).

CONCLUSION

In this study, success rates of CSF repair were not associated with the use of LDs. However, the small number of cases with high success rates precludes appropriate statistical analysis.

Endoscopic Reconstruction of Surgically Created Skull Base Defects

Objectives

To systematically review the literature concerning techniques of closure of endoscopically created skull base defects based on site of skull base defect and flow rate of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Data Sources

PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

A comprehensive systematic literature review.

Results

The literature search produced a total of 1708 studies. Of these, 1585 studies were excluded based on title and/or abstract review. A total of 123 articles remained for full-text review, 101 of which were subsequently excluded primarily because of lack of detailed information as to the reconstructive techniques used or clinical outcomes. Of the 22 studies remaining for final analysis, all were case series. A total of 673 patients were included in the analysis, with an overall postoperative CSF leak rate of 8.5%. Subgroup analysis was performed based on location of the skull base defect and presence and quality of intraoperative CSF leak.

Conclusions

Based on level 4 evidence, in cases of low-flow intraoperative CSF leaks, skull base reconstruction with multilayered free grafts and synthetic materials offers similar outcomes to vascularized flaps. In cases of high-flow intraoperative CSF leaks, pedicled vascularized flaps appear to be superior. Location of the defect does not seem to be a significant factor in determining successful closure, with the exception of clival defects. In all other sites, good closure may be achieved by multiple reconstructive approaches. More consistency in data reporting and higher levels of evidence will ultimately be necessary to make definitive recommendations.

Endoscopic management of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: the charing cross experience

Objective To describe our experience of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea management. Design Retrospective. Setting Charing Cross Hospital, London, a tertiary referral center. Participants Fifty-four patients with CSF rhinorrhea managed from 2003 to 2011. Main outcome measures Surgical technique; Recurrence. Results Etiologically, 36 were spontaneous and 18 traumatic. Eight patients with spontaneous and two with traumatic leaks had previous failed repairs in other units. Success rates after first and second surgery were 93% and 100%, respectively. Mean follow-up was 21 months. Four patients, all of spontaneous etiology, had recurrences; three of these underwent successful second repair with three layered technique, and the fourth had complete cessation of the leak after gastric bypass surgery and subsequent weight reduction. Adaptation of anatomic three-layered repair since then averted any further failure in the following 7 years. Mean body mass index was 34.0 kg/m(2) in spontaneous and 27.8 kg/m(2) in traumatic cases (p < 0.05). Fifty percent of spontaneous leaks were from the cribriform plate, 22% sphenoid, 14% ethmoid, and 14% frontal sinus. In the traumatic CSF leak group: 33.3% were from the cribriform plate, 33.3% sphenoid, 22.2% ethmoid, and 11.1% frontal. Conclusion Endoscopic CSF fistula closure is a safe and effective operation. All sites of leak can be accessed endoscopically. We recommend the use of an anatomic three-layered closure in difficult cases.