CSF Leak Repairs of the Nose

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear fluid surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. It cushions the brain and spinal cord from injuries. A CSF leak occurs when there is a tear in the outermost membrane (the dura mater) surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. This can occur from trauma, concussions, or even spontaneously.

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What Are the Symptoms of a CSF Leak?

A CSF leak can cause headaches due to low pressure in your CSF space. This can present as clear nasal drainage from one side of the nose. 


There are two types of CSF leaks: spinal CSF leaks, where the leak occurs at any point in the spinal column, and cranial CSF leaks, where the leak occurs in the brain. Both types of leaks have different causes, symptoms, and treatment options. 


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What Are the Treatment Options for CSF Leaks?

CSF leaks are very rare and can be wrongly misdiagnosed as migraines or sinusitis. To diagnose a CSF leak of the nose, your ENT doctor usually examines your nose with an endoscope. Doctors may ask you to collect the fluid draining from your nose to send for special testing. They may also recommend various tests to diagnose a CSF leak, such as a CT scan or an MRI scan. Some CSF leaks can improve with bed rest, while others might require treatment. 


A cranial CSF leak from your nose can usually be treated with an endoscopic repair directly through the nose. More invasive surgeries are usually only performed if other methods aren’t effective. Surgery involves repairing the leaks using layered tissue with flaps and grafts made from mucosa, fat, or muscle. 


Dr. Greg Davis has extensive experience with endoscopic repair of nasal and sinus CSF leaks.

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