Use of a new absorbable sealing film for preventing postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks: remarks on a new approach

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is an adverse event that can affect the postoperative course of neurosurgical patients. Despite the large intra-operative use effective strategies as well as specific devices, CSF leak post-operative occurrence has been recently reported in up to 11% of cases. TissuePatchDural is a new sealant that is now available in neurosurgery in order to repair dural defects and, consequently, to prevent the postoperative formation of CSF fistulas. The device is a synthetic absorbable film that can actively create a firm temporary connection with the external dural surface and thus favour a satisfactory healing of the wound. The authors report a preliminary experience about the use of such device in 12 selected patients.