Endoscopic Carpet Technique for Multiple Diffuse Skull Base Defects Causing Non-localising CSF Rhinorrhoea

Abstract

Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea, often resulting from head injuries, comes with various potential risks, such as recurrent meningitis if not properly managed. For diffuse skull base fractures leading to CSF rhinorrhoea, external approaches like frontal craniotomy for repair are usually practised, but it comes with a high rate of morbidity, like behavioural disorders, intracranial haemorrhage and seizures. Recent advances in endoscopic surgical techniques have revolutionised the treatment of these leaks, providing high closure rates and lower morbidity than traditional open surgery. However, in cases where the leak site is not visualised, endoscopic approach can be a challenge, but not impossible. Through this case report, we want to highlight a novel technique of the endoscopic carpet technique for CSF leak repair in a patient where leakage could not be localised.