Endoscopic Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) Rhinorrhea: Clinical Experiences

Abstract

Objective: We present our experience of endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea.Material and Methods: This was a retrospective study including 46 patients with CSF rhinorrhea, who were managedusing endoscopy at the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Ege University Hospital, between March 2010 andNovember 2016. The cause of CSF rhinorrhea, localization and size of the defect, repair style, and recurrence wereinvestigated.Results: Etiologically, 30 patients were traumatic and 16 were nontraumatic. Overall, 23% patients had a history ofmeningitis before admission to our clinic. The ethmoid roof, sphenoid sinus, and frontal recess were the commonestregions of defects. There was recurrence in 5 patients who were endoscopically managed.Conclusion: Because of the advances in endoscopic sinus surgery, endoscopic intracranial procedures, and anteriorskull base surgery, otorhinolaryngologists could frequently diagnose CSF rhinorrhea. Appropriate management andendoscopic techniques led to successful results.