Occult Pneumoencephaloceles Following Mastoidectomy: ‘Overlooked’ Entity?

Key Points

• Occult pneumoencephaloceles develop in some patients after mastoidectomy, potentially complicating recovery.
• In a cohort of 20 patients, neuroimaging detected pneumatic spaces in 30%, highlighting a diagnostic challenge.
• Assessment using neuroimaging revealed these complications, calling for careful monitoring during recovery from ear surgery.
• Increased awareness may improve diagnosis and treatment, preventing potential neurological complications.