Related Experiment Videos
Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging following cranial base surgery
R L Carrau1, J L Weissman, I P Janecka
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, PA.
The Laryngoscope
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Postoperative cranial base surgery imaging shows common early fluid or air collections that resolve over time. Brain swelling and contusions are also seen, with persistent changes like encephalomalacia after six months, but few correlate with clinical issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neuroradiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Anterior and anterolateral cranial base surgery involves complex procedures with potential for postoperative intracranial changes.
- Understanding the natural history of these imaging findings is crucial for accurate interpretation and patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively review computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in patients after cranial base surgery.
- To ascertain the significance and evolution of early and late postoperative intracranial imaging changes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT and MRI scans from 57 patients who underwent anterior or anterolateral cranial base surgery.
- Analysis of imaging changes within the first 72 hours and at 6 months postoperatively.
Main Results:
- Extra-axial changes (air, blood, CSF collection) were present in 96% of patients early postoperatively.
- Axial changes (brain edema, contusion) were observed in 30% of patients in the early period.
- Extra-axial changes resolved over time, while axial changes persisted, with encephalomalacia noted after 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Postoperative intracranial imaging abnormalities, particularly extra-axial collections, are common but often transient after cranial base surgery.
- Persistent axial changes like encephalomalacia can occur, but imaging findings showed a low correlation with clinically significant issues.