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Updated: Jul 8, 2026

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Intracranial Pressure Monitoring In Nontraumatic Intraventricular Hemorrhage Rodent Model
Published on: February 8, 2022
Intraventricular traumatic tension pneumocephalus: a case report
Engin Gönül1, Sertaç Yetişer, Sait Sirin
1Department of Neurosurgery, Gülhane Military Medical School, Ankara, Turkey.
Summary
A rare case of traumatic tension pneumocephalus was successfully treated. Prompt diagnosis and management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak led to resolution of intracranial air and patient recovery without deficit.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Traumatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Traumatic tension pneumocephalus is a rare and life-threatening condition.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for managing intracranial air accumulation.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male presented with blunt head trauma and persistent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea.
- Initial imaging was unremarkable, but symptoms progressed despite lumbar drainage.
- Subsequent imaging revealed significant intraventricular and subdural air, indicative of tension pneumocephalus.
Findings:
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was confirmed biochemically and histologically.
- Discontinuation of lumbar drainage and administration of mannitol effectively treated the tension pneumocephalus.
- Follow-up imaging demonstrated complete resolution of intracranial air.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients with head trauma and CSF leaks.
- Conservative management with mannitol can be effective in resolving traumatic tension pneumocephalus.
- Successful treatment resulted in full patient recovery without neurological deficits.
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