Recurrent Meningitis due to a Congenital Fistula in the Stapedial Footplate

Abstract

A patient with recurrent meningitis had spontaneous CSF leakage from the fistula of the stapedial footplate. The patient was a 7-year-old boy with profuse CSF otorrhea, proved by myringotomy. A roentgenographic examination and computed tomography scan of the temporal bone demonstrated an abnormal bony labyrinth. During the operation, a leak was found at the fistula of the stapedial footplate. Surgical obliteration of the fistula with temporal muscle and fascia has prevented the recurrence of meningitis.