Pneumorrhachis with pneumocranium: an unusual complication of intra-abdominal sepsis

Br J Neurosurg. 2011 Feb;25(1):111-2. doi: 10.3109/02688697.2010.500420. Epub 2010 Aug 13.

Abstract

We present this unusual case of a 60-year-old gentleman who presented with meningism and reduced conscious level. Imaging demonstrated a perforated sigmoid colon with retroperitoneal air associated with pneumorrhachis and pneumocranium. He required a Hartmann's procedure and broad spectrum intra-thecal antibiotics which led to resolution of the pneumorrhachis and pneumocranium.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical
  • Diverticulitis, Colonic / complications*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Perforation / complications
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pneumocephalus / diagnosis
  • Pneumocephalus / etiology*
  • Seizures, Febrile / etiology
  • Sepsis / complications*
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / diagnosis
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / etiology*
  • Treatment Outcome