CSF Leak Repair

• Prior to the surgery the patient will have to take the several prescribed medicines that will help reduce inflammation.
• The patient will have to abstain from smoking, 3-4 weeks prior to the surgery.
• If the patient is on any blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, omega 3 and/or vitamin E, they should stop their intake at least two weeks prior to the surgery.

1. • Patient should sleep with head slightly elevated for 7 days.
   • No heavy lifting, bending over, or straining for 30 days.
   • Do not blow nose or sniff forcefully.
   • Sneeze with mouth open if possible.
   • Wipe nose gently
   • Pain medication is to be taken after surgery.
   • It is normal to have mild bloody drainage for the first 24 to 72 hours.
   • The patient must use the prescribed nasal sprays as instructed by the doctor.
   • Patients can go home few hours after surgery

Post-operative follow-up visits with the operating surgeon can be scheduled as follows:

1. 10 days after surgery (1st visit)
2. Every 10 days in the first month after the initial visit (2nd & 3rd visits)

• The potential risks of this surgery are similar to endoscopic sinus surgery risks wherein there is less than 1% risk of unexpected damage to the brain and the optic nerve. 
• There is also some risk that the leakage can recur.