Pneumocephalus: an uncommon finding in trauma

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Radiology
• Trauma Medicine

Background:

• Pneumocephalus, defined as intracranial air, is an uncommon complication following head injury.
• It can manifest immediately post-trauma or be delayed, presenting with subtle or severe clinical symptoms.

Observation:

• This report details two cases of extensive pneumocephalus in patients who sustained head trauma.
• Diagnosis was confirmed using computed tomography (CT).

Findings:

• Computed tomography (CT) is crucial for identifying the precise location of intracranial air.
• CT also reveals the gas collection's relationship to basal skull fractures or air sinuses.
• The imaging modality assesses the mass effect exerted by the air on the brain.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis via CT is essential for appropriate management of pneumocephalus.
• Understanding the spatial relationship of air to fractures and sinuses aids in treatment planning.
• CT's role in evaluating mass effect is critical for predicting patient outcomes.