Surgical Management of Pseudomeningocele Combined with Intracranial Infections Following Neurosurgical Operation

Background: Pseudomeningocele is a common post-operative complication after a neurosurgical operation. Infection combined with pseudomeningocele can induce substantial morbidity. We presented a series of cases with pseudomeningocele combined with intracranial infection following neurosurgical operation focusing on operative technique and long-term clinical outcome. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the novel surgical technique in tackling the intractable post-operative complication. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with pseudomeningocele and intracranial infection following neurosurgical operations between 2012 and 2024 was performed. Standard statistical methods helped explore the associations between parameters requiring reoperation. The authors described surgical techniques and treatment strategies for pseudomeningocele combined with intracranial infection after a neurosurgical operation. Results: Of the 58 patients, 17 (29.3%) presented with post-operative pseudomeningocele, which was refractory to conservative treatment along with intracranial infection requiring surgical management. Pseudomeningocele requiring reoperation was much more likely in patients with craniectomy and those with craniotomy (41.9% vs. 14.8%, p = 0.024). Moreover, pseudomeningocele was more likely in patients without watertight closures than with (52.2% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.002). The post-operative image indicated no recurrence in these patients who underwent reoperation. Conclusions: The novel operative technique could successfully treat pseudomeningocele combined with intracranial infection refractory after a neurosurgical operation.