Small ventricular access prior to rigid neuroendoscopy.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Endoscopic Techniques

Background:

• Endoscopic therapies are increasingly used in neurosurgery, even in patients without hydrocephalus.
• Accurate ventricular access is crucial for these minimally invasive procedures.
• Existing techniques for ventricular access may have limitations in certain scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe a new modification for achieving small ventricular access.
• To present a technique that can be combined with neuronavigation or freehand approaches.
• To enhance the safety and efficacy of endoscopic neurosurgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• The described technique involves guiding an introducer sheath and trocar.
• Guidance is achieved down a ventriculostomy tract.
• Endoscopic visual control is utilized throughout the process.

Main Results:

• The technique allows for precise instrument placement within the ventricle.
• It can be integrated with established neuronavigation and freehand methods.
• The authors' experience suggests it is a safe adjunct.

Conclusions:

• This modification offers an additional method for obtaining ventricular access.
• It may improve the safety of endoscopic treatments, especially in non-hydrocephalic patients.
• The technique holds potential for broader application in endoscopic neurosurgery.