A

Most post-traumatic CSF rhinorrhoea is first managed conservatively: the patient is placed at bed-rest, head elevated, straining and nose-blowing are avoided, and prophylactic antibiotics are given while the leak is observed—because the majority seal spontaneously within a few days to weeks. Immediate nasal packing, forced blowing or craniotomy are reserved only when conservative measures fail or complications arise [Bell 2004, PMID 15170277; Yerkes 1992, PMID 1505381].