NEUROENDOSCOPY

Abstract

Pure neuroendoscopy is defined as the surgical procedure performed under a scope and instruments passing through a sheath. The technique has two prerequisites: a cavity and a translucent environment. The main surgical techniques for treatment of hydrocephalus are: third ventriculostomy for obstructive triventricular dilations; septostomy for communicating both lateral ventricles or opening isolated cavities in complex hydrocephalus and aqueductoplasty for trapped fourth ventricle. Arachnoid cysts are treated by opening their walls into the ventricular system or to the cisterns. Tumors can be biopsied or resected under the endoscope vision. This article summarizes the indications, results and particularities of each neuroendoscopic procedure with emphasis to the pediatric age.