Perioperative anesthesia management of a pediatric patient with unique ‘Mushroom Head’ tension pneumocephalus: A case report

Tension pneumocephalus is a life-threatening condition that presents significant challenges for anesthesiologists, particularly in pediatric and adolescent patients. This case report details the perioperative management of a 17-year-old male who developed tension pneumocephalus following a road traffic accident, leading to multiple skull base fractures. In this case, comprehensive preoperative assessment, intraoperative anesthetic management, and postoperative care strategies employed to optimize the patient's outcome. A thorough preoperative evaluation is important in guiding intraoperative and postoperative decisions to avoid unnecessary Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. Interdisciplinary collaboration between the surgical, anesthesiology, and endocrinology team is necessary to manage patient's condition effectively. The case report discusses diagnostic challenges, surgical interventions, and postoperative monitoring that led to the successful resolution of the patient's condition. This case shows the value of coordinated, patient-centered care in achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases of tension pneumocephalus.