Middle fossa extradural repair of sphenoidal encephaloceles

Abstract

Sphenoidal encephaloceles are uncommon but potentially dangerous pathological conditions that present with CSF rhinorrhea. Careful radiological evaluation and localisation of the sphenoid defect are critical in defining the surgical approach.

We used the middle fossa extradural approach in two patients with sphenoidal encephaloceles in whom previous endoscopic transnasal repairs had failed.

Key words:

• Temporal encephalocele
• sphenoid sinus
• spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea
• Sternberg's canal

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.