Endoscopic Approach to Type 1 Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak in the Thoracic Spine: Technical Considerations and Literature Review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks of spinal origin present unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Ventral leaks in particular are technically demanding due to limited exposure, proximity to the spinal cord, and the need for precise dural repair. Traditional management strategies, ranging from laminectomy-based approaches to thoracotomy, carry significant morbidity. Recent advances in full endoscopic spine surgery provide a minimally invasive alternative that allows surgeons to access ventral pathology, remove osteophytes, and perform direct dural closure under continuous irrigation. This article reviews treatment challenges, highlights conventional and emerging strategies, and discusses the role of full endoscopic repair of spinal CSF leaks. Technical considerations unique to endoscopic repair of Type 1 CSF leaks in the thoracic spine are described.
DOI: 10.14444/8838
Authors: Sanjay Konakondla, Albert Telfeian, Jian Shen
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4417524128