History of ventriculostomy

Ventriculoscopy and neuroendoscopy had their beginnings in the early part of the twentieth century, when neurosurgeons were motivated by a desire to control hydrocephalus. The development of endoscopy was initially hampered by significant complications. When extracranial shunting became commonplace, endoscopy was essentially discarded by neurosurgeons. It was because of the continuing problems with shunting that a renewed interest in neuroendoscopy developed. Specific indications for various procedures have now been developed, and increasing success is being realized by the use of endoscopic procedures.