CTICasesIatrogenic Cerebrospinal Fluid Pleural Leak
Imaging findings
Radiographs show a rapidly accumulating right pleural effusion post-spine surgery. CT myelography demonstrates a dural defect near the T10 pedicle with direct extravasation of intrathecal contrast medium into the right pleural space.
Key takeaways
Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak into the pleural space is a rare but serious complication of thoracic spine surgery that can present as a persistent, high-volume pleural effusion (pseudomeningocele). CT myelography is the imaging modality of choice to pinpoint the site of the dural tear for surgical repair.
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