Multispecialty view on the management of basal transethmoidal encephaloceles and meningoceles in the neonate

Abstract

Basal encephaloceles, and their subtype transethmoidal encephaloceles, are an extremely rare congenital abnormality. They commonly present with ocular anomalies and congenital dyscrasias. Similarly, meningoceles are unusual lesions associated with midfacial anomalies and hypertelorism. We report a case of a preterm newborn who was suspected to have a transethmoidal encephalocele who was operated on day 15 of life due to its expanding nature and concern for cerebrospinal fluid leak. Intraoperatively the lesion was isolated and noted to be devoid of brain tissue thus diagnosing her with a transethmoidal meningocele. Discussed here are the challenges faced with a neonatal repair of a transethmoidal meningocele and the multidisciplinary approach used involving neuroanesthesia, neurosurgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as otolaryngology teams.