CSF fistula surgery (Endoscopic CSF leakage) is a method of operation when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) comes out of its location. CSF is a fluid that circulates in the cavities within the brain and spinal cord and the membranes surrounding them. This fluid normally does not go outside the areas it circulates, ie it is contained in a system that is closed to the external environment. If this liquid goes out of the area, it causes a clear discharge through the nose. Meningitis or brain abscess may develop as a result of microbes entering the stream.
There are several causes of CSF leaks. Bone fractures due to accidents or impacts, previous nose or brain surgeries and tumors are the causes of CSF leakage.
The most important symptom of CSF leakage is usually unilateral runny nose. The discharge is continuous and clear in color. In this case, some tests are performed on the flowing fluid to determine whether the flowing fluid is CSF fluid. If the flowing fluid is CSF, the location of the leak should be determined by computed tomography and magnetic resonance films.
The treatment of the leak is possible by repair of the rupture of the brain membrane. Surgery is performed by entering through the head or nose. The recovery time is shorter in nasal surgery. Endoscopic surgery is performed through the nose. Surgery is performed completely through the nostrils. Therefore, there is no trace of an external surgical wound. Tissue may need to be removed from another part of the body, such as the leg and abdomen, to repair the brain membrane.
