Pattern of encephaloceles: a case series

Encephalocele is the protrusion of the cranial contents beyond the normal confines of the skull through a defect in the calvarium and is far less common than spinal dysraphism. The exact world wide frequency is not known. A substantial proportion of children especially those born with a large encephaloceles are physically and intellectually disabled. Our objective of this descriptive case series was to determine the patterns and surgical outcomes in various types of encephalocele in our setting. The study was carried at Department of Neurosurgery, Liaquat University Hospital, Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan during year 2005 to 2007. Patients with encephalocele [occipital, Scincipital, parietal] admitted during year 2005 to 2007 were evaluated for their clinical features. Complete base line investigations were performed including ultrasound, CT scan and MRI of brain. Other congenital anomalies were also noted in record. Written consent was taken. Operative and postoperative records were maintained. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS method. 25 children with encephalocele were selected during the years 2005-2007. Out of these 19 [76%] were male and 6 [24%] female. Age range was 06 days to 2 years. Most common type of encephalocele was occipital 20 [80%]. All patients underwent surgery. Out of 25 only one patient was died. Postoperative follow up showed uneventful results. Most common type of encephalocele is occipital in our set up. Contents of the sac of encephaloceles are dysplastic brain tissue and there is no harm to sacrifice it