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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
The use of noninvasive electromagnetic neuronavigation for slit ventricle syndrome and complex hydrocephalus in a
Simon Clark1, Meharpal Sangra, Caroline Hayhurst
1Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Royal Liverpool Children's NHS Trust, Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Liverpool, United Kingdom. simon.clark@thewaltoncentre.nhs.uk
Object:
The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the use of noninvasive electromagnetic neuronavigation in children, in particular its use in complex hydrocephalus and slit ventricle syndrome.
Methods:
Prospective data was collected from all pediatric patients undergoing insertion of ventriculoperitoneal shunts using electromagnetic frameless neuronavigation from January 2006 to November 2007.
Results:
Twenty-three patients fulfilled the study criteria. All ventricles were cannulated on the first pass. There were no immediate or early postprocedural complications. All but 1 patient had resolution of symptoms (mainly chronic headache) on follow-up (median 7 months, range 1-17 months). The proximal revision rate was 9% (2 of 23 patients). One patient required distal catheter revision. Infection occurred in 1 patient.
Conclusions:
Electromagnetic neuronavigation using a frameless and pinless system is especially suited for pediatric patients. The authors hypothesize that successful placement of ventricular catheters will reduce morbidity and improve shunt longevity.