Article
Endoscopic aqueductoplasty - Long-term results
Endoskopische Aquäduktoplastie - Langzeitergebnisse
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Published: | April 23, 2004 |
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Outline
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Objective
Endoscopic aqueductoplasty is an option in the treatment of obstructive hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenoses. We report on our experience with this endoscopic technique focussing on long-term results.
Methods
A series of 39 endoscopic aqueductoplasties was performed in 33 patients harboring a hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis. In thirteen patients, a third ventriculostomy was simultaneously performed.
Results
There was no endoscopy-related mortality. One aqueductoplasty had to be abandoned. The mean follow-up period was 40 months (ranging from 1 to 97 months). In seven patients, reclosure of the restored aqueduct required an endoscopic revision. In 25 patients (76 %), the hydrocephalus-related symptoms resolved or improved. The condition was unchanged in eight patients. Four patients needed to be shunted. The ventricles decreased in size in 22 patients (67 %), were larger in two, and unchanged in the remaining nine patients.
Conclusions
Endoscopic aqueductoplasty is a treatment option in patients with hydrocephalus caused by membranous aqueductal stenosis. Unfortunately, the reclosure rate is higher than initially expected. More experience and longer follow-up is necessary to determine the value of endoscopic aqueductoplasty in the treatment of hydrocephalus caused by aqueductal stenosis.