One of the complications of a temporal bone fracture is a CSF fistula causing CSF otorrhea. The presence of a fistula increases the risk of secondary meningitis.
Patient selection: CSF fistula status post temporal bone fracture
Many fistulas may close spontaneously within a few days.
Risk factors for meningitis:
(1) fistula persisting > 7 days
(2) concurrent infection
Other factors:
(1) environmental contamination of the region
Prophylactic antibiotics should be started once the CSF otorrhea is detected.
A fistula that persists for > 7 days should be evaluated for surgical closure.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
