Endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea - Manipal experience

Otolaryngologists play a major role in the management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea. A thorough understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and the various treatment options available is essential to achieve the best possible results.In this paper, we are highlighting the pathophysiology, diagnosis and surgical technique involved in the repair of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. A retrospective study conducted in the department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal is presented to highlight our experience with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea.Eleven patients were managed in the department of otolaryngology between 1999 and 2005. Seven had spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea, three were due to trauma and one iatrogenic, following surgery. Commonest anatomic site of leak was the cribriform plate in 4 cases. Other sites included sphenoid [2], lateral lamella [2], fovea ethmoidalis [2] and olfactory groove [1]. Onlay technique was performed in 10 out of 11 patients. Closure was successful in 10 out of 11 cases in the first attempt. One patient underwent revision surgery. Patients were followed up for a period ranging from 3 months to 3 years.CSF rhinorrhea is a potentially fatal condition which requires precise and urgent treatment. The transnasal endoscopic repair of CSF leak has a high success rate with low morbidity when performed by experienced endoscopic sinus surgeons. Our experience in managing this condition is presented.