Using hydroxylapatite ceramic buttons covered with periosteum to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leakage: technical note.

BACKGROUND

Many attempts have been made to prevent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, but the procedures proposed to date are troublesome and not promising. We describe a method of completely preventing CSF leakage using hydroxylapatite ceramics.

METHODS

Exposed frontal sinus, mastoid air cells, and frontal base defects caused by fracture are covered with periosteum or fascia and plugged with a trimmed hydroxylapatite ceramic button.

RESULTS

There was no CSF leakage, postoperative meningitis, or other complication related to the technique in a consecutive series of 25 patients treated using this procedure.

CONCLUSION

The use of this easy and quick technique may prevent CSF leakage completely.