Cervical Subarachnoid Drain for the Treatment of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Abstract

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a common phenomenon encountered by the neurosurgeon. It is most commonly come across after a neurosurgical procedure, but it can be seen idiopathically. Treatment usually ranges from conservative management through cerebrospinal fluid diversion to direct surgical repair. Continuous CSF drainage provides a path for diversion and allowing the site of the dural injury to heal effectively.1 Cervical subarachnoid drain is a safe and effective alternative when lumbar access is contraindicated or not achievable.2 Here we present a case of a 22-yr-old female with progressive symptomatic positional headaches due to a CSF leak froma prior deformity surgery treated with a cervical subarachnoid drain after a failed attempt at a direct repair. This 2-dimensional video illustrates the technique used for the placement of a cervical subarachnoid drain for the treatment of symptomatic CSF leak. Patient consented to the procedure and for the publication of their image.