Publication:

Post traumatic cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: a descriptive study

Background Post-traumatic CSF rhinorrhea occurs following head trauma or after intracranial surgery. Traumatic CSF rhinorrhea can be detrimental with complications such as bacterial meningitis.

Methods Retrospective review of hospital records of post-traumatic patients admitted under neurosurgery department from 2016-2021 was done. 66 patients with CSF rhinorrhea were identified. Their mode of trauma, management and radiological images were reviewed and recorded.

Results Out of the 66 patients, 87.8% were males and average age group 20-30years. 41 resolved with conservative management. Frontal bone was most common site of rhinorrhea. In 61.8% (n=41) patients, fracture was seen in more than one bone/anatomical site. Incidence of post-traumatic CSF rhinorrhea in this study in 6.6%.

Conclusions Early diagnosis and management are important to prevent complications. In majority of cases, the leak subsides with conservative management, hence early surgical intervention is not required.