Endoscopic third ventriculostomy

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a surgical procedure in which an opening is created in the floor of the third ventricle using an endoscope placed within the ventricular system through a burr hole. This allows the cerebrospinal fluid to flow directly to the basal cisterns, thereby shortcutting any obstruction. It is used to treat certain forms of obstructive hydrocephalus, such as aqueductal stenosis. Complications include subarachnoid hemorrhage, basilar artery injury and hypothalamic or pituitary injury.