Encephalocele - Single centre retrospective study

Abstract

Objectives: Encephalocele management requires long-term follow-up to monitor for potential complications, assess developmental milestones and address any ongoing healthcare needs. Establishing systems for continuity of care and follow-up can be challenging, particularly in resource-constrained settings. In low-income settings especially, access to specialised medical facilities, equipment and trained healthcare professionals may be limited, hindering timely diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention. Material and Methods: A retrospective study spanning 9 years was conducted on all patients who underwent encephalocele surgery at the Neurosurgery Department in our centre. The objective of our study is to highlight the challenges encountered in the management of encephaloceles. Results: Eleven patients with encephalocele were identified in our study. Ruptured encephaloceles were treated as emergencies. Histopathological examination of one patient revealed a teratoma. Conclusion: Encephalocele surgeries carry risks of complications such as infection, cerebrospinal fluid leakage and neurological deficits. Managing these complications effectively requires close post-operative monitoring and access to intensive care facilities, which may not be readily available in some settings.