Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 28, 2026

Full-Endoscopic Interlaminar Approach for Decompression of Lateral Recess Stenosis
Published on: February 24, 2023
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Postoperative Intracranial Pneumocephalus After Lumbar Decompression: A Case Study
ZhiWu Chen1, Zhong Xiang1, Pan Wang1
1Department of Orthopaedics, The Fourth Hospital of Changsha, Chang Sha Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Intracranial pneumocephalus is an extremely rare complication following posterior lumbar surgery. We present a case of a 67-year-old female who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) at L4/5 for lumbar disc herniation. During the procedure, severe adhesions between the ligamentum flavum and dura mater were encountered, resulting in an inadvertent dural tear with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. Six hours postoperatively, the patient abruptly developed dysarthria, expressive aphasia, and right-sided hemiparesis. Emergency cranial computed tomography revealed pneumocephalus predominantly in the bilateral frontotemporal sulci and suprasellar cistern, with greater involvement on the right side. Conservative management, including strict bed rest, intravenous hydration, analgesia, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), was initiated, leading to gradual neurological recovery. This case highlights the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of this rare complication, with emphasis on the potential role of HBOT in treatment.
More Related Videos
05:17Author Spotlight: Scope of LE-ULBD as a Safe, Effective, and Minimally Invasive Approach to Treat Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Published on: February 9, 2024
04:33Spinal Hernia Repair and Cauda Equina Repositioning After Lumbar Decompression under Three-Dimensional Microscopy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Published on: November 8, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology