Analysis of CSF shunting procedure requirement in children with posterior fossa tumors.

OBJECT

The authors analyze the factors that predispose to persistent hydrocephalus in children with posterior fossa tumors and compare their results and treatment policy with those described in the literature, particularly with regard to the higher postoperative shunt insertion rates, which have led some authors to the routine use of preoperative third ventriculostomy.

METHODS

The clinical records of 180 children treated for posterior fossa tumors in the Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery of the National Institute of Neurosurgery, Budapest, Hungary, between 1990 and 2000 were retrospectively reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

The low postoperative shunt insertion rate in our series (15.5%) led us to believe that the routine use of preoperative third ventriculostomy is not entirely justified. Factors such as patient's age and tumor type, which showed a statistically significant association with the postoperative shunt requirement in our study, should be considered when the decision regarding treatment is made.