ETV as a last resort.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The field of neuroendoscopy is rapidly expanding with increasing indications for endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). DISCUSSION: As a treatment for hydrocephalus, ETV has the advantage of providing a more physiological cerebrospinal fluid diversion without shunt hardware which reduces the risk of recurrent infection and malfunction. The success rate of ETV has been increasing with decreasing morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSION: Originally, ETV was indicated for cases of obstructive hydrocephalus, however the indications are expanding. To highlight this, we present a small series of cases were ETV is not traditionally indicated and was a treatment of last choice.