Tension pneumocephalus resulting from iatrogenic subarachnoid-pleural fistulae: report of three cases.

Publication Type	Case Report
Authors	Bilsky M, Downey R, Kaplitt M, Elowitz E, Rusch V
Journal	Ann Thorac Surg
Volume	71
Issue	2
Pagination	455-7
Date Published	02/01/2001
ISSN	0003-4975
Keywords	Fistula, Pleural Diseases, Pneumocephalus, Postoperative Complications, Subarachnoid Space, Thoracotomy
Abstract	BACKGROUND: Symptomatic pneumocephalus may result from a cerebrospinal fluid leak communicating with extradural air. However, it is a rare event after thoracic surgical procedures, and its management and physiology are not widely recognized. METHODS: During the past 2 years, we have identified 3 patients who developed pneumocephalus after thoracotomy for tumor resection. Only 1 patient had a discernible spinal fluid leak identified intraoperatively. Two patients experienced delayed spinal fluid drainage from their chest tubes and subsequently developed profound lethargy, confusion, and focal neurologic signs. The third patient was readmitted to the hospital with a delayed pneumothorax and altered mental status. Radiographic imaging in all patients showed significant pneumocephalus of the basilar cisterns and ventricles. RESULTS: The first 2 patients were managed by discontinuation of the chest tube suction and bedrest. The third patient underwent surgical reexploration and nerve root ligation. All 3 patients had resolution of their symptoms within 72 hours. CONCLUSIONS: Pneumocephalus is a rare, but serious, complication of thoracotomy. Previous patients reported in the literature have been managed with reoperation to ligate the nerve roots. However, the condition resolved nonoperatively in 2 of our patients. Discontinuation of chest tube suction may be definitive treatment and is always the important initial management to decrease cerebrospinal fluid extravasation into the pleural space and allow normalization of neurologic symptoms.
DOI	10.1016/s0003-4975(00)02339-0
PubMed ID	11235688