Publication:

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy for hydrocephalus: a study of thirty cases

Background Raised intracranial pressure because of abnormal accumulation of CSF with in the ventricles of brain is a potentially life-threatening condition. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt remains mainstay of treatment even today. However, shunt failure is not uncommon. Hence endoscopic procedures are now gaining popularity. The outcome of ETV with respect to age ,etiology and long-term outcome needs further elucidation.

Methods Thirty patients with hydrocephalus who underwent endoscopic treatment were analysed retrospectively with respect to age, diagnosis, surgical outcome, treatment failure and complications.

Results Total of 28 patients successfully underwent ETV and with an overall success rate of 78%. Moreover, the success rate of ETV was found to be 100% in the 0-1 and 80% in 1-2 years age groups. 2 patients required re operation in the form of VP shunt.

Conclusions ETV is a safe and effective surgical modality with comparable outcome in paediatric and adult populations.