Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections

Abstract Objective: Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections represent a heterogeneous group of conditions that have different terminologies but the same clinical and imaging features, benefiting from the same therapeutic modalities. Between hygroma/hydroma and serous meningitis there is only a topographic difference that has no influence regarding the therapeutic decision or the patient’s outcome. Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections present themselves as a unitary group which benefits from a unitary management, regardless the given terminologies. This 5 years study reviews the experience, treatment and outcome of patients with such conditions. Method: A retrospective analysis of data collected from 46 patients with posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections is presented. Asymptomatic patients or those with mild symptoms were conservatively treated (n=27). Surgical evacuation was performed in cases of intracranial hypertension or neurological worsening (n=19). Results: Clinical results are presented using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Regarding the group of patients treated conservatively, good results were obtained (GOS score 4 or 5) in 81.4 % of the cases. Regarding the surgical treated group of patients, good results were obtained in 73.6% of the cases. The mortality rate was 18.5%, and 26.3% respectively. Conclusions: Although several different names can be found in literature, posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections present themselves as a unitary group, with good outcome after conservative or surgical treatment. The therapeutic decision is made regarding the neurological status and the clinical evolution, which can be correlated with some imaging features.