Related Experiment Videos
Cervical intrathecal catheter placement for cerebrospinal fluid drainage: technical case report
J B Wahlig1, W C Welch, J D Kang
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania, USA.
Objective And Importance:
The purpose of this report is to describe the placement and use of a cervical subarachnoid catheter for cerebrospinal fluid diversion. This technique provides an important alternative drainage system for patients whose clinical situations preclude lumbar spinal fluid diversion.
Clinical Presentation:
Two patients were involved in accidents that resulted in traumatic dural tears. Both patients required thoracolumbar spinal reconstruction with instrumentation. Cerebrospinal fistulae developed, which were refractory to surgical reexploration.
Technique:
A commercially available catheter was successfully placed in the cervical subarachnoid space under fluoroscopic guidance using a C1-C2 approach in both patients. Spinal fluid drainage was maintained for 5 days via this route, and this proved effective in resolving the cerebrospinal fluid fistula. No complications were observed with the placement or maintenance of the catheter.
Conclusion:
Cervical spinal fluid drainage is a feasible alternative for patients in whom lumbar access cannot be obtained or is contraindicated.