Intracranial hypotension is a rare condition that can occur spontaneously or as a long-lasting consequence of injury to the spinal cord skin caused by a lumbar puncture or other spinal surgery. The leading symptom is position-dependent headaches, which typically worsen when the patient changes to an upright position. Other symptoms may include ringing in the ears/tinnitus, dizziness, impaired hearing and vision as well as nausea and vomiting; this combination of symptoms is known as cerebrospinal fluid hypotension syndrome.
If left untreated, intracranial hypotension can lead to cerebral hemorrhages, thrombosis of cerebral veins and, as a late consequence, to blood deposits on the brain and spinal cord, which in turn cause irreversible damage to the brain, spinal cord and cranial nerves.
In cooperation with neurosurgery, ear, nose and throat medicine and neurology, the B Centre specializes in non-invasive diagnostics using MRI as well as advanced diagnostics using digital subtraction angiography and CT myelography.
First-line therapeutic measures include probationary lumbar epidural autohemotherapy ("blood patch") and - if necessary - image-guided targeted multi-level patches in the affected areas of the entire spine. CSF scintigraphy and intrathecal administration of gadolinium contrast agents are also available as further diagnostic measures.
Post-therapeutic support for patients is offered on a long-term basis.
