Dural Reduction Surgery: A Treatment Option for Frontotemporal Brain Sagging Syndrome

Can J Neurol Sci. 2016 Jul;43(4):593-5. doi: 10.1017/cjn.2016.3. Epub 2016 Mar 14.

Abstract

Frontotemporal brain sagging syndrome is a dementia associated with hypersomnolence, personality changes, and features of intracranial hypotension on magnetic resonance imaging. The literature is sparse with respect to treatment options; many patients simply worsen. We present a case in which this syndrome responded to lumbar dural reduction surgery. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging indicated normalization of brain sagging and lumbar intrathecal pressure. Although no evidence of cerebrospinal leak was found, extremely thin dura was noted intraoperatively, suggesting that a thin and incompetent dura could result in this low-pressure syndrome. Clinicians who encounter this syndrome should consider dural reduction surgery as a treatment strategy.

Keywords: Frontotemporal Dementia; Neuroimaging; Neurosurgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Disorders of Excessive Somnolence / complications*
  • Disorders of Excessive Somnolence / diagnostic imaging
  • Frontotemporal Dementia / complications*
  • Frontotemporal Dementia / diagnostic imaging
  • Frontotemporal Dementia / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypotension / complications*
  • Intracranial Hypotension / diagnostic imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
  • Personality Disorders / complications*
  • Personality Disorders / diagnostic imaging