Pneumocephalus complicating routine thoracotomy: symptoms, diagnosis and management.

Brown, W M; Symbas, P N · Ann Thorac Surg · 1995

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Pneumocephalus resulting from a subarachnoid-pleural fistula most commonly occurs after trauma. Such a complication is very rarely seen after thoracotomy alone, with 15 cases reported to date in the literature. We report a case of pneumocephalus and subarachnoid-pleural fistula that developed secondary to thoracotomy. It was diagnosed by postmyelography computed tomography and treated with open surgical repair after a trial of conservative therapy failed. The presenting symptoms and signs, diagnostic methods, and options for therapy are reviewed.

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