Localisation of liquor fistulae by CT cisternography

Positive CT cisternography has proved a useful method for the accurate pre-operative localisation of liquor fistulae from the skull base. In this way, planning of surgery can be improved with respect to the operative approach and the area to be covered. The risk of a recurrence is also reduced. It is necessary, however, to have a clinically recognisable leak at the time of the examination, since it is otherwise difficult to indicate the flow during the examination. We regard persistent or recurrent liquorrhoea as an indication for this examination, irrespective of its cause, provided it is intended ot proceed to surgery after a positive finding. The method has few complications, is easy to perform and, in case of recurrence, can be repeated. (orig.)