Postoperative Tension Pneumocephalus

Report of 2 Cases

Abstract

Two cases of tension pneumocephalus produced by iatrogenic causes are described. Dural tears were produced by a pin of a Mayfield head-holder in one case and by pansinectomy in the other case. In addition, both cases had procedures which induce low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), such as a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt or lumbar punctures. For production of tension pneumocephalus in these cases, CSF diversionary procedures may play an important role in the accumulation of air in the intracranial space.