Developing a Spinal CSF Leak Program in a Multihospital Network

Curr Probl Diagn Radiol. 2020 Nov-Dec;49(6):370-376. doi: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2020.03.004. Epub 2020 Apr 9.

Abstract

Objective: Spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are rare and challenging to diagnose and treat. Patients may present to a variety of physicians, and many patients are often referred to a specialized center with a dedicated spinal CSF leak program and expertise in this condition. To our knowledge, there are no reported publications on how to create such a program.

Conclusion: In this article, we describe the specific steps we took to develop a spinal CSF leak program, which we have implemented over a multihospital network.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / etiology
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / therapy*
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Multi-Institutional Systems / organization & administration*
  • Patient Care Team / organization & administration
  • Radiology, Interventional / organization & administration*

Substances

  • Contrast Media