Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Otogenic pneumocephalus associated with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Young Hoon Kim1, Won Il Lee, Mi-Na Park
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, National Health Insurance Corporation Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea.
A rare case of otogenic pneumocephalus, or intracranial air from the ear, was treated surgically. This condition, linked to negative pressure and well-pneumatized mastoid bone, can cause tinnitus.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Otogenic pneumocephalus involves intracranial air originating from the middle ear or mastoid air cells.
- It is typically associated with cranial trauma or iatrogenic injury.
- A rare case of spontaneous otogenic pneumocephalus is presented, linked to a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and well-pneumatized mastoid bone.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of otogenic pneumocephalus.
- To describe the diagnostic findings and surgical management.
- To discuss the potential etiology and associated symptoms.
Main Methods:
- High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the temporal bones was used for diagnosis.
- Surgical intervention involved a left mastoidectomy with dural defect repair.
- The defect was sealed using a temporalis muscle plug and bone dust.
Main Results:
- HRCT revealed a large left posterior fossa pneumocephalus with a dehiscent bony route.
- A communication was identified in the posterior fossa dura plate.
- Surgical repair successfully sealed the dehiscence.
Conclusions:
- Otogenic pneumocephalus can arise spontaneously, particularly with negative intracranial pressure and extensive pneumatization of mastoid air cells.
- Roaring tinnitus may be a presenting symptom.
- Surgical management of the dural defect is effective.
Related Concept Videos
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Brain Abscess l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
