Airhead: intraparenchymal pneumocephalus after commercial air travel

Abstract

Background: Commercial air travel either in the postoperative setting or after open skull fracture has the potential to place patients at unnecessary risk. Although the timing is not clearly known, it should be established that there is no persistent fistulous tract that could introduce additional intraparenchymal air.

Case description: We present a case of a gentleman with dramatic pneumocephalus after commercial air travel.

Conclusion: Because of the potential for serious and permanent injury that can result from a dramatic and sustained increase in intracranial pressure, air travel should be delayed until there is no evidence of a fistulous tract. We discuss some basic in-flight options and precautions should change in timing of travel not be possible.