Lumbar drain for CSF leakage: A word of caution

Chashamjot Bawa Chasham (Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed University)
Jyoti Raina Jyoti (Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed University)
Amandeep Singh Randhawa Aman (Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed University)
Khushbu Rani Khushbu (Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Maharishi Markandeshwar Deemed University)

Neurologico Spinale Medico Chirurgico
Vol 4 No 2 (2021)

Continuous lumbar drain is a frequently practiced procedure to prevent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) infection in post-operative neurosurgical cases. However, the level of CSF drained must correspond to the intracranial pressures, where any accidental increase in lumboventricular gradient by slipping of the drainage bag below the level of the iliac crest can lead to over drainage and catastrophe. The learning point is to use automated or manual measures to monitor Intra-Cranial Pressure (ICP) and sound alarm in such an event to prevent sagging of the brain.