Endoscopic management of frontal sinus CSF leaks

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Background:

• Endoscopic management is the gold standard for frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks.
• This technique offers high success rates and minimal patient morbidity.
• This study reviews institutional experience with this challenging condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the experience of managing frontal sinus CSF leaks.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the endonasal endoscopic approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients undergoing endoscopic surgery for frontal sinus CSF leaks.
• Evaluation of demographics, defect etiology, surgical techniques, and outcomes.
• Analysis of complications and postoperative follow-up data.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two patients (mean age 40.4 years) were treated between 2015-2019.
• All cases achieved successful first-attempt endoscopic repair.
• A combined endoscopic-trephination approach was needed in 22.8% of patients, with no serious complications.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic repair is the established standard of care for frontal sinus CSF leaks.
• The technique demonstrates high success and safety.
• Combining endoscopy with frontal trephination can address limitations of the endoscopic-only approach.