Utilidad de los colgajos e injertos endonasales en cirugía endoscópica nasosinusal y de base de cráneo. Documento de consenso / Usefulness of endonasal flaps and grafts in skull base surgery. Consensus document

Introducción: La reconstrucción de base de cráneo constituye uno de los mayores retos de la cirugía endoscópica endonasal expandida. Existen multitud de injertos y colgajos de origen endonasal que han demostrado su utilidad en el control de complicaciones como las fístulas de LCR, entre otras. Se hace necesaria la revisión y el análisis de los recursos endonasales y su uso en cirugía endoscópica endonasal expandida.ObjetivosDocumento de consenso sobre el uso de los distintos injertos y colgajos de origen endonasal y su uso en cirugía endoscópica endonasal expandida.Material y métodosRevisión bibliográfica sobre los injertos libres y colgajos vascularizados de origen endonasal más relevantes. Análisis mediante el método Delphi, sobre el uso de los distintos recursos endonasales para la reparación endoscópica de defectos de base de cráneo.ResultadosSe obtuvieron dos resultados. 1) Una selección de los colgajos e injertos de origen endonasal más representativos, describiendo origen, superficie e indicaciones, a partir de una revisión bibliográfica. 2) Un documento de consenso, utilizando la metodología Delphi, con las consideraciones generales (2), recomendaciones (10) y limitaciones (6) sobre el uso de los distintos colgajos e injertos de origen endonasal.ConclusionesPresentamos el primer documento de consenso en el campo de la cirugía endoscópica endonasal utilizando el método Delphi como herramienta de trabajo. Se destaca la utilidad del colgajo nasoseptal junto con el resto de colgajos e injertos de origen endonasal para la cirugía reconstructiva de base de cráneo. (AU)

Introduction: Skull base reconstruction is one of the greatest challenges extended endonasal endoscopic surgery. Many grafts and flaps from the endonasal fossa have been demonstrated to be useful in the control of complications such a cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Review and analysis of these resources are necessary in skull base recontruction to improve outcomes.ObjectivesThe target is to create a consensus document on the use of different endonasal flaps and grafts in the skull base surgery.Material and methodsLiterature review of the most relevant free grafts and vascularized flaps from the endonasal fossa. Analysis using the Delphi method on the use of the different endonasal resources for endoscopic repair of skull base defects.ResultsWe obtained two results: 1) A selection of the most representative flaps and grafts from the endonasal fossa, describing origin, surface and indications, based on a literature review. 2) A consensus document, using Delphi methodology, with general considerations (2), recommendations (10) and limitations (6) of the different endonasal flaps and grafts.ConclusionsWe present the first consensus document in the field of extended endonasal endoscopic surgery using the Delphi method as a working tool. We highlight the usefulness of the nasoseptal flap together with other endonasal flaps and grafts for skull base reconstruction. (AU)

Usefulness of endonasal flaps and grafts in skull base surgery. Consensus document.

INTRODUCTION: Skull base reconstruction is one of the greatest challenges extended endonasal endoscopic surgery. Many grafts and flaps from the endonasal fossa have been demonstrated to be useful in the control of complications such a cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Review and analysis of these resources are necessary in skull base recontruction to improve outcomes. OBJECTIVES: The target is to create a consensus document on the use of different endonasal flaps and grafts in the skull base surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Literature review of the most relevant free grafts and vascularized flaps from the endonasal fossa. Analysis using the Delphi method on the use of the different endonasal resources for endoscopic repair of skull base defects. RESULTS: We obtained two results: 1) A selection of the most representative flaps and grafts from the endonasal fossa, describing origin, surface and indications, based on a literature review. 2) A consensus document, using Delphi methodology, with general considerations (2), recommendations (10) and limitations (6) of the different endonasal flaps and grafts. CONCLUSIONS: We present the first consensus document in the field of extended endonasal endoscopic surgery using the Delphi method as a working tool. We highlight the usefulness of the nasoseptal flap together with other endonasal flaps and grafts for skull base reconstruction.

Fístula traumática de líquido cefalorraquídeo tras realización de test PCR mediante hisopo nasal para el diagnóstico de COVID-19. Revisión sistemática / Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid leak after performing PCR test using a nasal swab for the detection of COVID-19 disease. A Systematic review

Introducción y objetivo: Las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) pueden producirse tras un traumatismo, esto conlleva una disrupción entre la aracnoides y la duramadre, frecuentemente asociado a un defecto óseo. La epidemia mundial producida por la COVID-19 ha generado la necesidad de disponer de test rápidos para la detección del virus en mucosa nasal y orofaríngea. Los hisopos nasales (HN) han demostrado ser útiles a la hora de recoger muestras nasofaríngeas y por lo tanto se ha generalizado su uso. Este método diagnostico se considera seguro, pero existen una serie de posibles complicaciones entre las que se encuentra una de las más temidas; la fístula de LCR. El objetivo de este artículo es realizar una revisión bibliográfica exhaustiva de artículos disponibles que describan esta complicación, investigando los factores predisponentes y a su vez describir una técnica segura para evitarla.Método: Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos de PubMed, Web of Science y Scopus de acuerdo con las pautas de PRISMA desde marzo de 2020 hasta noviembre de 2021. Se revisaron los estudios que informaron datos clínicos de pacientes con fistulas de LCR tras ser sometidos a frotis nasales mediante hisopos. Nos centramos en los síntomas de alarma presentados, las estrategias diagnosticas y el manejo terapéutico. Resultados: Hasta la fecha se han reportado once casos publicados de pacientes con diagnostico de fistula de LCR segundaria a la realización de test PCR mediante HN. En esta revisión sistemática se incluyen estos artículos. (AU)

Introduction and objective: Cerebrospinal fluid leaks (CSF) can occur after trauma, this leads to a disruption between the arachnoid and the dura, frequently associated with a bone defect. The global epidemic produced by COVID-19 has generated the need for rapid tests to detect the virus in the nasal and oropharyngeal mucosa. Nasal swabs (NS) have proven to be useful in collecting nasopharyngeal specimens and therefore their use has become widespread. This diagnostic method is considered safe, but there are a number of possible complications, including one of the most feared; CSF leak. The objective of this article is to carry out an exhaustive bibliographic review of available articles that describe this compli-cation, investigating the predisposing factors and describe a safe technique to avoid it. Method: PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases were searched according to PRISMA guidelines, from March 2020 to November 2021. Studies reporting clinical data of patients with CSF leak after being subjected to NS were reviewed. We focus on the alarm symptoms presented, diagnostic strategies and therapeutic management. Results: To date, eleven published cases have been reported of patients with a diagnosis of CSF leaks caused by performig a PCR test using a nasal swab. All the articles were included in this systematic review. Each article described this complication in one patient, so we have a total of eleven patients. The average age at diagnosis was 45 years, with 8 women and 3 men. The cribriform plate is the most frequently affected anatomical location. In five patients, 45,5%, the preexistance of malformation at the level of the skull base was known, which corresponds to a risk factor when suffering a CSF leaks after NS. (AU)

Fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo traumática tras realización de test PCR mediante hisopo nasal para la detección de COVID-19. Descripción de un caso / Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid leak after performing PCR test using a nasal swab for the detection of COVID-19 disease. A case report

Introducción y objetivo: Las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) pueden producirse tras un traumatismo, esto conlleva una disrupción entre la aracnoides y la duramadre, frecuentemente asociado a un defecto óseo. La epidemia mundial producida por la COVID-19 ha generado la necesidad de disponer de test rápidos para la detección del virus en mucosa nasal y orofaríngea. Los hisopos nasales (HN) han demostrado ser útiles a la hora de recoger muestras nasofaríngeas y por lo tanto se ha generalizado su uso. El objetivo de este artículo recae en describir una potencial complicación del test PCR mediante HN, como es la fístula de LCR, mediante el reporte de un caso clínico. Método: Se expone el caso de una paciente que sufre una fístula de LCR tras realización de test PCR mediante HN, se explica el diagnostico y manejo detallando las pruebas complementarias y el tratamiento final. Discusión: La fístula de LCR es una complicación poco frecuente de los test con HN. A pesar de esto, existen y hay que pensar en ella ante una rinorrea unilateral persistente tras realizar este test. En la actualidad tan sólo hay escasos casos en la publicados literatura que describan esta complicación. Conclusiones: Aunque la prueba de HN para diagnostico de la COVID-19 se considera segura, en ocasiones puede conllevar complicaciones. La aparición de rinorrea clara unilateral o goteo post nasal de sabor salado o metálico tras la realización de un HN nos debe poner en alerta a la hora de diagnosticar una posible fístula de LCR. Es de suma importancia instruir adecuadamente al personal sanitario que realiza el test, indicando la dirección y orientación correcta del hisopo. Además, se debe informar al paciente sobre los síntomas y signos de alarma. En pacientes con alteraciones previas de la base del cráneo, distorsión de la anatomía nasal o cirugías previas nasosinusales puede ser recomendable utilizar en ellos otro tipo de pruebas disponibles para diagnosticar la COVID-19. (AU)

Introduction and objective: Cerebrospinal fluid leaks can occur after trauma, this leads to a disruption between the arachnoid and the dura, frequently associated with a bone defect. The global epidemic produced by COVID-19 has generated the need for rapid tests to detect the virus in the nasal and oropharyngeal mucosa. Nasal swabs (NS) have proven to be useful in collecting nasopharyngeal specimens and therefore their use has become widespread. The objective of this article is to describe a potential compli-cation of the NS PCR test, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, by reporting a clinical case. Method: The case of a patient who suffers a CSF leak after performing a PCR test using a NS is presented, the diagnosis and management are explained, detailing the complementary tests and the final treatment. Discussion: CSF leaks is a rare complication of NS tests. Despite this, persistent unilateral rhinorrhea does exist and should be considered first after performing this test. Currently, there are few cases published in the literature that describe this possible complication. Conclusions: Although the NS test for the diagnosis of COVID-19 is considered safe, it can sometimes lead to complications. The appearance of unilateral clear rhinorrhea or post-nasal drip with a salty or metallic taste after performing a NS should alert us when diagnosing a possible CSF leak. It is extremely important to adequately instruct the health workers to perform the test, indicating the correct direction and orientation of the swab. In addition, the patient should be informed of the warning signs and symptoms. In patients with previous skull base alterations, distortion of the nasal anatomy or previous sinus surgeries, it may be advisable to use other types of tests available to diagnose COVID-19. (AU)

Hipotensión intracraneal secundaria a fístula espinal espontánea de líquido cefalorraquídeo: Presentación de tres casos / Intracranial hypotension secondary to spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid fistula: Three case reports

El síndrome de hipotensión intracraneal espontánea (HIE) es una dolencia poco frecuente. El síntoma principal es la cefalea ortostática, si bien pueden aparecer otras manifestaciones como síntomas vegetativos, meningismo o déficits neurológicos focales. La causa más frecuente es una fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo, generalmente traumática. Las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo espontáneas son poco comunes y se relacionan con la presencia de quistes/divertículos meníngeos o en el contexto de enfermedades del tejido conectivo. El diagnóstico se basa en las pruebas de imagen, tanto para detectar complicaciones intracraneales, como los hematomas subdurales bilaterales y para localizar el punto de fuga a nivel intracraneal o espinal. El tratamiento de la HIE suele ser conservador mediante reposo postural, cafeína y analgésicos. La inyección de un parche hemático epidural es una opción válida cuando persisten los síntomas. La cirugía está indicada en casos refractarios o cuando existe un defecto anatómico evidente y accesible. En el presente artículo se describen tres casos clínicos con síndrome de hipotensión intracraneal secundarios a una fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo espontánea a nivel espinal (AU)

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome (SIH) is a rare condition. The main symptom is orthostatic headache, although other symptoms such as vegetative symptoms, meningism, or focal neurological deficits may appear. The most common cause is a cerebrospinal fluid leak, usually traumatic. Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks are rare and associated with the presence of meningeal cysts / diverticula or in the setting of connective tissue diseases. The diagnosis is based on imaging tests, both to detect intracranial complications and bilateral subdural hematomas and to locate the leak point at the intracranial or spinal level. The treatment of SIH is usually conservative: bed rest, caffeine and analgesics. Epidural blood patch is a good option when symptoms persist. Surgery is indicated in refractory cases or when there is an evident and accessible anatomic defect. This article describes three clinical cases with intracranial hypotension syndrome secondary to a spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak (AU)

Creation and validation of a radiological checklist for functional endoscopic sinonasal surgery. A YO-IFOS initiative.

BACKGROUND: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery might lead to dangerous complications. Studying and analysing preoperative CT scans provides surgeons with a precise knowledge of their patient's anatomy, thus reducing the risk of potential complications. Checklists highlighting key anatomical areas have been published and proven useful. However, none of these are widely accepted or systematically used in daily practice. OBJECTIVE: In this paper, the rhinology group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Otorhinolaryngological Societies (YO-IFOS) aim to create and validate a new checklist designed to be fast and user friendly for daily practice. METHODS: Two CT sinonasal scans were selected as test cases. Forty otolaryngologists were selected from five tertiary referral hospitals. It was a cross-sectional study; each participant was their own control. All participants completed a questionnaire after the analysis of both CT scans to prevent learning bias. The evaluation included ten items critical in endoscopic sinus surgery according to previous publications. RESULTS: There were 80 evaluations. There was a significant increase in the number of correctly identified critical structures with the use of the checklist (p=.009). There was a statistically significant difference in low- experience evaluators, while it was not statistically significant for experienced surgeons. The most unanswered structures were suprabullar recess, dangerous v2 nerve, anterior ethmoid artery, dangerous vidian nerve and Onodi cell. The most wrongly identified structures were Keros type, septal deviation and cribiform middle turbinate. CONCLUSION: The YO-IFOS radiological checklist has proven a useful tool for correctly studying sinonasal anatomical variations. There is a clear learning component in the use of the checklist although it does not in any way exempt specialists from thorough study of sinonasal anatomy. Given the risk-benefit ratio, we strongly suggest the routine use of the checklist to systematically assess CT-scans prior to endoscopic sinonasal surgery.

Creation and validation of a radiological checklist for functional endoscopic sinonasal surgery. A YO-IFOS initiative

Background: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery might lead to dangerous complications. Studying and analysing preoperative CT scans provides surgeons with a precise knowledge of their patient's anatomy, thus reducing the risk of potential complications. Checklists highlighting key anatomical areas have been published and proven useful. However, none of these are widely accepted or systematically used in daily practice.ObjectiveIn this paper, the rhinology group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Otorhinolaryngological Societies (YO-IFOS) aim to create and validate a new checklist designed to be fast and user friendly for daily practice.MethodsTwo CT sinonasal scans were selected as test cases. Forty otolaryngologists were selected from five tertiary referral hospitals. It was a cross-sectional study; each participant was their own control. All participants completed a questionnaire after the analysis of both CT scans to prevent learning bias. The evaluation included ten items critical in endoscopic sinus surgery according to previous publications.ResultsThere were 80 evaluations. There was a significant increase in the number of correctly identified critical structures with the use of the checklist (p=.009). There was a statistically significant difference in low- experience evaluators, while it was not statistically significant for experienced surgeons. The most unanswered structures were suprabullar recess, dangerous v2 nerve, anterior ethmoid artery, dangerous vidian nerve and Onodi cell. The most wrongly identified structures were Keros type, septal deviation and cribiform middle turbinate. (AU)

Objetivo: La cirugía endoscópica nasosinusal (CENS) tiene complicaciones peligrosas. El estudio peroperatorio de la tomografía nasosinusal otorga un conocimiento preciso de la anatomía del paciente, reduciendo así el riesgo de complicaciones. Se han publicado listas de comprobación para cirugía nasosinusal, y estas han demostrado su utilidad. En este trabajo, desde el grupo de rinología de Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-rhino-laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), se diseñó y validó una lista de comprobación con el objetivo de ser amplia, cómoda y práctica para uso en la práctica clínica diaria.MétodosSe seleccionaron 2 tomografías nasosinusales como caso problema. Cuarenta otorrinolaringólogos fueron reclutados de 5 centros de tercer nivel. Se diseñó un estudio cruzado, por lo que cada participante fue su propio control. Todos los participantes completaron una evaluación tras el análisis de ambos casos con el objetivo de evitar sesgo de aprendizaje.ResultadosSe completó un total de 80 evaluaciones. El uso del checklist supuso una mejoría en el número de variantes peligrosas identificadas (p=0,009). La diferencia fue estadísticamente significativa para evaluadores poco experimentados, pero no para los experimentados. Las variantes con mayor número de respuestas en blanco fueron el receso suprabullar, el nervio V2, la arteria etmoidal anterior, el nervio vidiano y la celda de Onodi. Las estructuras con mayor número de error fueron Keros, desvío septal e inserción del cornete medio en lámina cribosa. (AU)

Usefulness of endonasal flaps and grafts in skull base surgery. Consensus document. / Utilidad de los colgajos e injertos endonasales en cirugía endoscópica nasosinusal y de base de cráneo. Documento de consenso.

INTRODUCTION: Skull base reconstruction is one of the greatest challenges extended endonasal endoscopic surgery. Many grafts and flaps from the endonasal fossa have been demonstrated to be useful in the control of complications such a cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Review and analysis of these resources are necessary in skull base recontruction to improve outcomes. OBJECTIVES: The target is to create a consensus document on the use of different endonasal flaps and grafts in the skull base surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Literature review of the most relevant free grafts and vascularized flaps from the endonasal fossa. Analysis using the Delphi method on the use of the different endonasal resources for endoscopic repair of skull base defects. RESULTS: We obtained two results: 1) A selection of the most representative flaps and grafts from the endonasal fossa, describing origin, surface and indications, based on a literature review. 2) A consensus document, using Delphi methodology, with general considerations (2), recommendations (10) and limitations (6) of the different endonasal flaps and grafts. CONCLUSIONS: We present the first consensus document in the field of extended endonasal endoscopic surgery using the Delphi method as a working tool. We highlight the usefulness of the nasoseptal flap together with other endonasal flaps and grafts for skull base reconstruction.

Fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo después de hisopado nasofaríngeo en pandemia COVID-19. A propósito de dos casos

Resumen Uno de los pilares fundamentales en el manejo de la pandemia por SARS-CoV2 es la detección temprana de la presencia del virus en pacientes. El método más utilizado es mediante hisopado nasofaríngeo para amplificar ácidos nucleicos mediante reacción en cadena de polimerasa (PCR). Las complicaciones asociadas a la técnica de hisopado aún no están completamente caracterizadas. Hasta ahora hay un caso reportado internacionalmente de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo poshisopado nasofaríngeo. Presentamos dos casos de fístula posterior a dicho examen: el primer caso un paciente de género femenino con sospecha de hipertensión intracraneal idiopática, cuya brecha se reparó quirúrgicamente; el segundo caso un paciente de género masculino con antecedente de hidrocefalia y meningitis neonatal que, al estudio por rinorraquia, se encuentra un meningoencefalocele en el receso frontal derecho, también reparado quirúrgicamente.

Abstract One of the cornerstones in the management of coronavirus pandemic is the early identification of virus presence in patients. The most used test is the nasopharyngeal swab, used to amplify nucleic acids through polymerase chain reaction. Complications with this test have not been completely characterized. Until now, only one international report of cerebrospinal fluid leak has been reported. We present two cases of leak after nasopharyngeal swab test: the first case corresponded to an adult feminine gender patient with suspected idiopathic intracranial hypertension, whose gap was surgically repaired; the second case adult male patient with medical history of hydrocephalus and neonatal meningitis who was further studied for rhinoliquorrhea that showed a meningoencephalocele occupying the right frontal recess.

Intracranial hypotension secondary to spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid fistula: Three case reports. / Hipotensión intracraneal secundaria a fístula espinal espontánea de líquido cefalorraquídeo: Presentación de tres casos.

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome (SIH) is a rare condition. The main symptom is orthostatic headache, although other symptoms such as vegetative symptoms, meningism, or focal neurological deficits may appear. The most common cause is a cerebrospinal fluid leak, usually traumatic. Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks are rare and associated with the presence of meningeal cysts / diverticula or in the setting of connective tissue diseases. The diagnosis is based on imaging tests, both to detect intracranial complications and bilateral subdural hematomas and to locate the leak point at the intracranial or spinal level. The treatment of SIH is usually conservative: bed rest, caffeine and analgesics. Epidural blood patch is a good option when symptoms persist. Surgery is indicated in refractory cases or when there is an evident and accessible anatomic defect. This article describes three clinical cases with intracranial hypotension syndrome secondary to a spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak.

Hemorragia cerebelosa remota después de cirugía de columna lumbar: reporte de caso / Remote cerebellar hemorrhage after lumbar spine surgery: case report

Introducción: La hemorragia cerebelosa remota (RCH, por sus siglas en inglés) después de la cirugía de la columna vertebral es una complicación poco frecuente y se cree que es debida a una pérdida de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) a través de un desgarro dural. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo es describir un caso de RCH después de una cirugía de columna lumbar, discutir sus posibles mecanismos y revisar la literatura. Material y métodos: Una mujer de 17 años sufrió una caída de altura, presentando luxofractura lumbar sin déficit neurológico. Se realizó descompresión y artrodesis instrumentada. Durante la cirugía se observó un desgarro dural y fuga de líquido cefalorraquídeo. La duramadre desgarrada fue suturada y se dejó un drenaje espinal continuo. Al tercer día postoperatorio evolucionó con disartria y cefalea. La TC de cerebro evidenció una RCH. Resultados: Se retiró el drenaje espinal y la RCH fue tratada de forma conservadora. La paciente fue dada de alta a las 3 semanas sin compromiso neurológico. Conclusión: Aunque la RCH es un evento extremadamente raro, debe tenerse en cuenta como una posible complicación de la cirugía de la columna vertebral, especialmente en operaciones complicadas por desgarros durales.

Introduction: Remote cerebellar hemorrhage (RCH) after lumbar spine surgery is a rare complication and can happen as a result of a cerebro spinal fluid (CSF) leak during surgery. Objective: To describe a case of RCH, discuss the physiopathology and make a review of the literature. Material and methods: A 17 year-old woman presented with a lumbar fracture-dislocation with no neurological déficit after falling from height. A surgical decompression and fusion was performed. During surgery, a dural tear with CSF leakage was found. The tear was sutured and a lumbar drain was placed. 3 days after surgery, the patient presented headaches and dysarthria. Results: The lumbar drain was removed and the RCH was treated conservatively. Patient was discharged 3 weeks after, with no neurological déficit. Conclusion: Although RCH is an extremely rare complication, it should be suspected as a possible complication of spine surgery, specially in surgeries with dural tears.

¿Es posible diferenciar líquido cefalorraquídeo de otras secreciones? Utilidad de la proteína Beta Trace como biomarcador de fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo / Is it possible to differentiate cerebrospinal fluid from other secretions? Usefulness of Beta Trace protein as a biomarker of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas

Objetivo: Describir el uso de la proteína Beta Trace (PBT) como marcador de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) en una serie de casos de pacientes con sospecha de fístula de LCR (FLCR). Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo con datos recolectados en forma prospectiva, observacional y descriptiva. Se revisaron las historias clínicas, estudio por imágenes y datos de laboratorio de una serie de 19 pacientes con sospecha de FLCR en los cuales se había realizado la detección de la PBT mediante electroforesis bidimensional, entre julio 2015-julio 2018. Resultado: La edad promedio fue de 48,1 años, 9 fueron hombres y 10 mujeres, 10 pacientes provenían de neurocirugía, 7 de otorrinolaringología (ORL), y 2 de traumatología (OyT). De las 19 muestras, 14 fueron positivas para la detección de PBT. Cinco casos (26.32%) presentaron antecedente de meningitis, todos ellos con PBT positivo. De los casos positivos, 14 fueron tratados, 3 sin cirugía y 11 con cirugía. La principal causa fue post quirúrgica (n=9). El seguimiento promedio fue de 13,79 meses, 13 casos tuvieron resultado "favorable" y uno "desfavorable". Los 5 casos con PBT negativa fueron tratados con medidas no quirúrgicas. Todos con resultado "favorable". Conclusión: La PBT permitió, en los casos positivos, detectar LCR en las secreciones estudiadas, y en los negativos, descartarla.

Objective: To describe the use of beta-trace protein (BTP) as a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker in patients with suspected CSF leakage. Methods and Materials: A retrospective study was conducted using data previously collected for a prospective, observational study. Data included the case records, imaging studies and laboratory data from a series of 19 patients with suspected CSF leakage in whom two-dimensional electrophoresis was performed for BTP detection, between July 2015 and July 2018. Results: Average patient age was 48.1 years old, with nine males and ten females. Ten patients were from neurosurgery, seven from otorhinolaryngology (ENT), and two from traumatology. Of the 19 samples, 14 were positive for BTP. Nine of the patients (47.4%) sustained their CSF leakage during surgery. Five patients (26.3%) had a history of meningitis, all with positive BTP. All 14 BTP-positive cases were treated, three without and 11 with surgery. Average post-operative follow-up was 13.8 months, with 13 patients experiencing a "favorable" and one "unfavorable" outcome. All five patients who screened negative for BTP were treated non-surgically and had a favorable outcome. Conclusions: In patients in whom BTP was identified, the marker was useful for detecting CSF in the secretions studied. Amongst those who screened negative for BTP, its absence helped to rule out the presence of a CSF leak.

Manejo endoscópico del meningoencefalocele de base de cráneo anterior / Endoscopic management of anterior skull base meningoencephalocele

RESUMEN La fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) corresponde a una comunicación anormal entre el espacio subaracnoideo y la porción neumatizada de la base de cráneo anterior en relación con las cavidades paranasales. Fístulas persistentes requieren reparación quirúrgica por el riesgo de meningitis, abscesos cerebrales y neumoencéfalo asociado. El gold standard es el abordaje extracraneal endoscópico. Uno de los principales inconvenientes es dañar estructuras intracraneanas nobles. La ayuda de tecnologías como la cirugía guiada por imágenes, contribuye a disminuir este problema. A continuación se presentan dos casos clínicos de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo en base de cráneo anterior, asociado a meningoencefalocele, intervenidos por cirugía endonasal guiada por imágenes.

ABSTRACT Endoscopic management of anterior skull base meningoencephalocele. The cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF) is an abnormal communication between the subaracnoid space and the pneumatic portion of the anterior cranial base which is related to the paranasal cavities. The persistent leak requires surgery due to the potential complications such as meningitis, cerebral abscess or pneumoencephalus. Extracranial endoscopic approach is the gold standard procedure. One of the most important risk of the surgery is to damage noble intracranial structures. This situation can be ameliorated by using image guided surgery. We present two cases of CSF in anterior cranial base associated with meningoencephalocele that were treated in our center using nasal image guided endoscopic surgery.

Tratamiento de las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo en pacientes de Las Tunas / Treatment of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas in patients from Las Tunas

Fundamento: las indicaciones, enfoque, momento de la cirugía y el uso de antibióticos profilácticos en las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo siguen siendo controvertidos. Se requiere de más evidencias de la eficacia terapéutica de las diferentes modalidades de tratamiento. Objetivo: describir los resultados del algoritmo de tratamiento para la fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo, empleado en pacientes atendidos en el Hospital General Docente Dr. Ernesto Guevara de la Serna, de Las Tunas, de enero de 2013 a septiembre de 2016. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo en el referido hospital y período de tiempo ya declarado. La muestra estuvo formada por 46 pacientes ingresados con diagnóstico de fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo. Se creó una base de datos para el procesamiento de la información que se analizó mediante la estadística descriptiva, utilizando el valor porcentual para reportar los resultados. Resultados: la rinorrea directa unilateral o bilateral fue la forma de presentación más frecuente, seguido de la salida de líquido por la herida quirúrgica y el acumulo en las partes blandas. Las fracturas de base de cráneo, la cirugía de los tumores de fosa posterior y las discectomías microquirúrgicas fueron las causas más frecuentes, el mayor número de pacientes se benefició con la colocación de un drenaje espinal continuo. Conclusiones: para el tratamiento de las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo el drenaje espinal continuo es una opción factible(AU)

Background: indications, approach, time of surgery and use of prophylactic antibiotics in cerebrospinal fluid fistulas remain controversial. Further evidence of the therapeutic effectiveness of different treatment modalities is required. Objective: to describe the results of the treatment algorithm for cerebrospinal fluid fistula, used in patients attended to at the Dr. Ernesto Guevara de la Serna General Teaching Hospital of Las Tunas, from January 2013 to September 2016. Methods: a descriptive and prospective observational study was carried out at the hospital and during the period of time herein mentioned. The sample was made up of 46 patients admitted with a diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid fistula. A database was created for the information processing that was analyzed using descriptive statistics, using the percentage value to report the results. Results: unilateral or bilateral direct rhinorrhea was the most frequent form of presentation, followed by fluid outflow from the surgical incision and accumulation in the soft tissues. Basilar skull fractures, surgery of posterior fossa tumors and microsurgical dissectomies were the most frequent causes. The highest number of patients benefited from the placement of a continuous spinal drainage.Conclusions: for the treatment of cerebrospinal fluid fistulas, continuous spinal drainage is a feasible option(AU)

[External lumbar drainage with volumetric continuing infusion pump in patients with cerebrospinal fluid leak. A case series]. / Drenaje lumbar externo con bomba volumétrica continua en pacientes con fístula cefalorraquídea. Series de casos.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the incidence and complications arising in a number of cases of patients with cerebrospinal fluid leak treated by external lumbar drainage with infusion pump (IP) volumetric continuous from 2001 to 2014. Quantify cerebrospinal fluid leak closed by lumbar drainage with IP. METHODS: Retrospective descriptive case series study. POPULATION: patients undergoing transsphenoidal pituitary surgery, Chiari surgery and laminectomy, that developed postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak treated with continuous external lumbar drainage by IP. VARIABLES: age, sex, type of intervention, variables related to the practice of the pump and complications. Average and medians were calculated for quantitative variables, frequencies and percentages for qualitative. RESULTS: Sample: 11 subjects. Incidence in running IP: disconnection, occlusion and acoustic alarm activation. Most frequently complication is headache; a case of pneumocephalus. DISCUSSION: The small number of subjects and the heterogeneity of these do not allow for comparison or establishing associations between variables. The resolution of the cerebrospinal fluid leak with continuous IP is lower in this study than others, and may be influenced by the small number of subjects. It should be noted the frequent activation of the pump alarm for no apparent cause. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Protocol would be developed for preparing the IP team to reduce the acoustic alarm activation, and would make a prospective multicenter study.

Estudio comparativo de cierre de cuero cabelludo en neurocirugías supratentoriales: intradérmica vs. surget / Comparative study of scalp closure in supratentorial neurosurgery: intradermal vs. surget

Introducción: El cierre de cuero cabelludo en neurocirugías supratentoriales mediante sutura intradérmica es una técnica poco difundida en la actualidad. En contraste, es común que se efectúen suturas de alta tensión con el fin de evitar dehiscencias, fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) y sangrado durante el período posquirúrgico, pero que no tienen buen resultado estético. Objetivo: Comparar las complicaciones relacionadas al cierre de cuero cabelludo que se presentaron en neurocirugías supratentoriales en un período de 19 meses, para determinar si utilizar un cierre de menor tensión y con mejor resultado estético, es igual de seguro que las técnicas de cierre habituales. Materiales y Métodos: Se incluyeron 84 casos de neurocirugías supratentoriales electivas. En 43 casos (control) se realizó el cierre mediante sutura continua tipo surget y en 41 casos (experimental) el cierre fue mediante sutura intradérmica. Resultados: Se presentaron 2 casos de infecciones, 1 en cada grupo (p= 0,97) y 1 caso de sangrado en el grupo control (p= 0,32). No se presentaron dehiscencias ni casos de fístula de LCR. Conclusiones: El cierre de cuero cabelludo mediante sutura intradérmica fue un método seguro que no generó una mayor incidencia de complicaciones y logró un mejor resultado estético a corto y largo plazo.

Background: Scalp closure by means of intradermal suture in patients who underwent supratentorial neurosurgeries is currently an uncommon technique. In contrast, it is usual to perform high tension sutures to avoid skin dehiscence, cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF) and postoperative bleeding; however it usually results in unsatisfactory aesthetic results. Aim: Comparing complications, over a two year period, related to scalp closure occurred in supratentorial neurosurgeries. The goal is to establish if the intradermal suture is as safe as the current high tension closure technique.Materials and Methods: Eighty-four patients were included. In forty-three cases (control) continuous high tension suture (surget) was performed. The other forty-one cases (experimental) underwent intradermal suture. Results: Two infection cases occurred, one from each group (p= 0, 97). There was one case of bleeding that took place in the control group (p= 0,32). Neither dehiscence nor CSF leak occurred in any of the trial cases.Conclusions: Intradermal suture performed for scalp closure was as safe as surget in terms of complications occurrence and obtained better cosmetic results in the short and long term.

[Endoscopic endonasal surgery for sellar region pathology. An analysis of our first 200 patients. What we have learned]. / Cirugía endoscópica endonasal en patología selar. Análisis de nuestros primeros 200 pacientes. Qué hemos aprendido.

INTRODUCTION: Pituitary and sellar region tumours account for 10-15% of intracranial benign tumours, with pituitary adenoma being the most common one. In this article, a review is presented on 9 years of experience in surgical treatment using an endoscopic approach of sellar region lesions. The main features of our surgical technique will be explained, as well as the results in clinical and hormonal terms. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 200 patients operated on due to sellar lesions by the same neurosurgeon (J.E.) using an endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach between February 2006 and February 2015. The cases excluded were, those requiring extended approaches of the skull base, as well as craniopharyngiomas, inflammatory, metastatic, or malignant lesions. RESULTS: Of the 200 patients treated (59.5% women, mean age of 51.7 years, range: 18-82 years old), there were: 7 Rathke cysts and 193 adenomas (26 micro-adenomas and 165 macro-adenomas). All of them sub-classified according to the degree of invasion of the cavernous sinus (Knosp 0, 1, and 2: 129 cases and Knosp 3 and 4: 71 cases). Total resection was achieved in 143 patients (71.5%), subtotal resection in 39 (19.5%), and partial resection in 18 (9%). In the group of higher occupancy of the cavernous sinus (Knosp 3 and 4) complete resection was achieved in 55.5% (40 of 71 patients). Hormonal remission was achieved in 34 patients with acromegaly (85%), 23 patients with prolactinomas (76%), and 30 patients with Cushing's disease (86%). CONCLUSION: The results obtained in our series, due to the centralisation of pathology and experience, are comparable to those achieved in pituitary surgery reference centres. Early surgical exploration of cerebrospinal fluid leaks reduces the risk of post-surgical meningitis.

[Simultaneous diagnosis of pseudomeningocele, tethered cord syndrome and cerebrospinal fluid fistula: Report of a case]. / Diagnóstico simultáneo de pseudomeningocele, síndrome de médula anclada y fístula de líquido cefalorraquídeo: a propósito de un caso.

The clinical case is presented on a patient with an extensive sacral dysraphism, a history of myelomeningocele surgical repair in her childhood, as well as tethered cord syndrome. The patient was also diagnosed with pseudomeningocele and a cerebrospinal fluid cutaneous fístula. A surgical approach was used, with encouraging results being obtained in the clinical outcome of the patient. A review of the literature was performed to support the surgical decision in this case.

Reparación endoscópica de encefalocele esfenoidal, secundario a persistencia del canal de Sternberg / Endoscopic repair of sphenoid encephalocele, secondary to persistence of Sternberg's canal

Las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo (FLCR) nasales se producen por la comunicación entre el espacio subaracnoídeo y el tracto aerodigestivo. Pueden ser adquiridas (secundarias a trauma o iatrogenia) o espontáneas. Éstas últimas pueden ser de origen congénito, tumoral o idiopáticas. El canal lateral craneofaríngeo o de Sternberg se produce por la falta de fusión de los puntos de osificación del seno esfenoidal durante el período embrionario. Esta región, ubicada posterolateral a la pared inferior del seno esfenoidal, queda cubierta solamente por tejido conectivo, siendo la zona de menor resistencia de la base de cráneo. La persistencia de este canal puede causar FLCR, especialmente cuando se asocia a elevación de la presión intracraneana y extensa neumatización. La cirugía endoscópica nasal es la técnica de elección para la resolución de estos casos. En el presente artículo se realiza una revisión de la técnica quirúrgica endoscópica nasal para la resolución quirúrgica de encefaloceles secundarios a persistencia del canal de Sternberg, en base a dos casos clínicos que fueron sometidos a cirugía endoscópica nasal.

Nasal cerebrospinal fluid leaks are caused by a nasal communication between the subarachnoid space and the aerodigestive tract. They may be acquired (secondary to trauma or iatrogenic) or spontaneous. The latter can be congenital, tumoral or idiopathic. The lateral craniopharyngeal canal or Sternberg canal is caused by the lack of fusion of the points of ossification of the sphenoid sinus during the embryonic period. This region, located posterolateral to the bottom wall of the sphenoid sinus, is covered only by connective tissue, being the area of least resistance of the skull base. The persistence of this canal can cause cerebrospinal fluid leaks, especially when associated with elevated intracranial pressure and extensive pneumatization. Nasal endoscopic surgery is the technique of choice for solving these cases. This article is a review of the endoscopic surgical technique of encephaloceles secondary to persistence of Sternberg canal, based on two clinical cases.

Endoscopic transpterygoid approach and skull base repair after sphenoid meningoencephalocele resection. Our experience.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Cerebrospinal fluid leaks associated to meningoencephaloceles of the sphenoid lateral recess are rare entities. A congenital bony defect at this level results in the persistence of Sternberg's canal, or a lateral craniopharyngeal canal, which is supposed to be the origin of these lesions. Our objective was to show that the endoscopic transpterygoid approach is an effective technique for their treatment. METHODS: We present a series of 5 cases of meningoencephaloceles of the sphenoid lateral recess treated with endoscopic sinus surgery (4 women and one man; mean age=59, range 37-72 years). Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea was present in all of them and they all underwent a transpterygoid approach with reconstruction of the skull base. We describe the surgical technique and review the literature. RESULTS: No complications were observed during surgery or the postoperative period. After a mean follow-up of 81 months, only one recurrence was seen. CONCLUSIONS: The transpterygoid approach has proven to be effective for the treatment of meningoencephaloceles of the sphenoid lateral recess. Providing wide access to identify the defect, followed by meningoencephalocele ablation, is the key for successful surgery.