An inflammation or infection of the protective membranes covering the central nervous system, known collectively as the meninges. Meningitis most often develops from a viral or bacterial infection. While some forms of meningitis are mild and resolve on their own, meningitis is a potentially serious life-threatening condition. Bacterial meningitis can occur after intracranial surgery, especially in association with a leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF leak). Prompt repair of the leak and antibiotics are required treatmen

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is constantly made by the brain and reabsorbed into the blood system. On occasion, as a result of a skull fracture, weakness of the brain covering (dura), intracranial surgery or growth of a brain tumor, CSF may leak through the brain covering. This is a potentially dangerous condition that can lead to an infection of the CSF (meningitis) or of the brain itself (brain abscess). One of the more common complications of transsphenoidal surgery is a post-operative CSF leak. As shown Dr. Kelly’s recent experience, CSF leaks that occur at the time of surgery require careful repair to avoid a post-operative CSF leak. Using this methodology, the chance of a post-operative CSF leak should be no greater than 1-2%.  

A CSF leak is usually associated with watery clear drainage out of the nose, ear canal or out of a surgical incision. If meningitis has occurred, headache, stiff neck and photophobia (sensitivity to light) may occur; other symptoms such as weakness, in-coordination and confusion may occur.

Treatment of a CSF leak requires either direct surgical repair or in some instances use of temporary diversion of CSF through a lumbar drain or a ventriculostomy (a catheter placed in the ventricle of the brain). In some instances, both surgical repair and CSF diversion are required to effectively seal a CSF leak.