Multiprofessional collaboration within Family Health Units (FHU) is essential for the early identification of postoperative complications. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula is an important postoperative complication after lumbar spine surgery due to the risk of rapid progression to central nervous system infection (CNS).We report a 50-year-old male patient, previously submitted to two L5–S1 discectomy and decompression. Due to recurrence of the disc herniation with poorly controlled lumbosciatic pain, he underwent new surgery in 2025. One week postoperatively, the patient attended the nursing consultation for wound care at the FHU. He reported severe orthostatic headaches with cervical irradiation, experiencing a syncopal episode while entering the office. The nurse conducted an initial assessment and promptly requested evaluation by a Family Medicine physician. Based on clinical assessment, a CSF fistula was suspected, prompting urgent referral to the Emergency Department. The diagnosis was confirmed, and the patient required two reoperations. His six weeks stay was complicated by CNS infection, L5–S1 motor and sensory deficit, urinary retention and neurogenic constipation.  The patient currently presents residual L5–S1 right-sided hypoesthesia and neurogenic bladder dysfunction managed with scheduled intermittent catheterization, while continuing physiotherapy.Although CSF fistula following lumbar surgery is well described, early recognition in primary care settings is rarely reported. This case differs from existing literature by highlighting the decisive role of FHU-based multiprofessional teamwork in identifying a complication that is typically diagnosed in hospital contexts.This case underscores the need for high clinical suspicion when evaluating recent postoperative patients presenting with nonspecific symptoms. It also reinforces the importance of structured communication pathways within FHUs, which may be further optimized to accelerate decision-making and referral.Early recognition of this potentially severe condition was facilitated by effective communication and collaboration between nursing and medical staff. The case demonstrates how coordinated primary care follow-up contributes to patient safety in the postoperative period.Close collaboration between nurses and physicians in the FHU was pivotal for early diagnosis of a CSF fistula. The case emphasizes that, although Family Medicine may appear as an individual practice, that high-quality, safe care in Family Medicine depends on cohesive multiprofessional teamwork.