Scientific Illustration

Cervical Subarachnoid Catheter Placement for Continuous Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage: A Safe and Efficacious Alternative to the Classic Lumbar Cistern Drain

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage serves an important role in the management of patients with established or potential CSF fistulae. Classically, a lumbar CSF drain has been used for this purpose and has been shown to be safe and effective. In certain cases, such as extensive previous lumbar surgery, a lumbar drain cannot be used. In such instances, a cervical CSF drain can be inserted via a lateral C1-2 puncture and provides an excellent and safe alternative. 

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