Fatal Posttraumatic Tension Pneumocephalus: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Tension pneumocephalus occurs when a continuous flow of air accumulates in the intracranial cavity and produces a mass effect on the brain. Presentation of case We describe a fatal case in a 16-year-old boy who developed extensive tension pneumocephalus following basal skull fracture after acute head trauma that required surgery. Discussion: Although the aetiology of tension pneumocephalus is obscure, a good result could be achieved with an early diagnosis and prompt treatment using burr hole trephination and saline infusion.