Ventriculostomy

Ventriculostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening connecting the ventricles of the brain to the subarachnoid space.

This surgery is performed to treat intracranial hypertension caused by poor circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid. Poor circulation can be caused by brain tumors, trauma, infections, or congenital hydrocephalus.

When performing a ventriculostomy, the neurosurgeon makes a hole in the wall of the brain ventricle, most often in the area of ​​the anterior horns of the lateral ventricles. This helps drain excess cerebrospinal fluid from the ventricles into the subarachnoid space, normalizing intracranial pressure.

Ventriculostomy can be performed as a temporary measure to reduce blood pressure or as a permanent solution to poor circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. This is an effective method for treating hydrocephalus and intracranial hypertension.

What is ventriculotomy?

**Ventriculotomy** is a neurosurgical operation that involves creating a communication between the ventricles of the brain and the external environment. This surgical intervention is often used in pediatric practice, when the ventricles grow to such a size that any violation of their integrity can lead to serious consequences. The cerebral ventricles are formed as a result of incompletely formed openings in the cerebral cavity, connecting the brain with the fourth ventricle at the site of its formation (cistern) and with the canal of Sylvius (in the lateral ventricles). However, if a hole in one of these canals becomes too large and the ventricle is compressed, hydrocephalus may develop. And if such pathologies develop in a child, these risks are accompanied by a high probability of damage to the areas of the brain responsible for higher nervous activity.

The ventricular system is located inside the cranium. It is a system of cavities that tend to grow in the event of the development of numerous pathologies. If insufficient outflow of contents occurs in the ventricle, this contributes to the progression of the disease and can be life-threatening for the patient. In the chronic course of the disease, neoplasms develop in the cavities, causing compression of brain structures.