Computed tomography of a false postoperative meningocele.

False meningoceles following laminectomy have been reported; however, calcified postoperative meningoceles have not been demonstrated by computed tomography (CT). These cystic lesions may be considered as postoperative false (or spurious) meningoceles. The development of these changes occurs because a collection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the soft tissue through a rent in the dura. The surrounding soft tissues can absorb only a finite amount of fluid; then a connective tissue reaction occurs that walls off the CSF. In rare instances, as seen in our case, the connective tissue can calcify, thus forming a false postoperative meningocele.