Management of Recurrent CSF Leak After Occipital Tumor Surgery: A Case Report

Abstract

We present the case of a 10-year-old male with recurrent CSF leakage after surgery for an occipital tumor. Initial management of the CSF leak, including debridement, re-exploration, and lumbar drain insertion, failed to address the problem. The last resort was the insertion of the EVD, which managed to stop the leak. Cerebrospinal fluid leakage remains one of the most common complications in neurosurgery. CSF leakage can prolong hospitalization, require further surgery, and cause tension pneumocephalus, CSF infection, and wound dehiscence. Management of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage includes suturing the surgical wound and applying pressure dressings or through surgical means such as cerebrospinal fluid diversion and re-exploration.