Simple pneumocephalus most frequently arises as a complication of a head injury in
which a compound basal skull fracture with tearing of the meninges allows entry of
air into the cranial cavity. It can also follow a neurosurgical operation. Tension
traumatic pneumocephalus with intraventricular extension is an extremely rare, potentially
lethal condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. We report the case
of subdural and intraventricular accidental tension pneumocephalus occurring in a
26-year-old man as a result of skull fracture. This case is combined with rhinorrhea
and meningitis that suggest some difficulties to treat. The operative procedure associated
with medical treatment was performed and a good result was obtained.
Key words:
Tension Pneumocephalus - Trauma - Surgery
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Corresponding Author:
E Gönül,M. D
Department of Neurosurgery School of Medicine GATA Etlik-Ankara
Turkey
Phone: Phone:+90 312 321 03 70
Fax: Fax:+90 312 321 23 99
