Neuroendoscopic surgery for unilateral hydrocephalus due to inflammatory obstruction of the Monro foramen.

OBJECTIVE

Unilateral hydrocephalus (UH) is characterized by enlargement of just one lateral ventricle. In this paper, the authors will demonstrate their experiences in the neuroendoscopic management of this uncommon type of hydrocephalus.

METHOD

The authors retrospectively reviewed a series of almost 800 neuroendoscopic procedures performed from September 1995 to July 2010 and selected seven adult patients with UH. Clinical and radiological charts were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

Six patients had intraventricular neurocysticercosis and one patient had congenital stenosis of the foramen of Monro. Headaches were the most common symptom. A septostomy restored cerebrospinal fluid circulation. During follow-up period (65.5 months, range 3-109) no patient has presented clinical recurrence as well as no severe complications have been observed.

CONCLUSION

UH is a rare condition. A successful treatment can be accomplished through a neuroendoscopic approach avoiding the use of ventricular shunts.