Tension Pneumocephalus

ABSTRACT

This paper presents one case of subdural tension pneumocephalus which deteriorated in the early phase of head trauma. Pneumocephalus occurs in 0.5 to 1.0% of head trauma cases. Most patients have nonspecific signs and symptoms, such as headache. Therefore, a high index of suspicion in a patient with recent head trauma is necessary. Therapy is often noninvasive, allowing the craniodural defect to heal spontaneously. However, if enough air collects within the cranium or the brain itself, a mass effect with marked midline shift may develop. This is referred to as tension pneumocephlus and may result in herniation symdrome. Prompt decompression is essential.