Two-stage management of mega occipito-encephalocele

We report three cases of large occipito-encephaloceles that were managed in the Neurosciences Unit, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia over the last 5 years. All patients had pre-operative MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) evolution and mapping of the sagittal sinus tract. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of all three patients were initially diverted by means of ventricular shunt two weeks prior to shunt removal. The slow drainage of CSF prevented electrolyte and volume disturbances due to sudden decompression during their definitive occipital encephalocele operations. After 3 years follow-up, all these patients are progressing well.