Ascending transaqueductal cystoventriculoperitoneal shunting in Dandy-Walker malformation: technical note

The optimal treatment for Dandy-Walker malformation is still controversial. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting, cystoperitoneal shunting or combinations are the most common surgical options in the management of this clinical entity. Endoscopic procedures like ventriculocystostomy, 3rd ventriculostomy or endoscopy-assisted shunt surgeries have become the focus of recent publications. We describe a new transcystic endoscopic technique, with the usage of a single ascending transaqueductal shunt catheter with additional holes, whereby both the posterior fossa cyst and supratentorial ventricular compartments are drained effectively. By using this new technique complications associated with combined shunting can be avoided. In addition, by equalizing the pressure within the supra- and infratentorial compartments, the upward or downward herniations associated with single-catheter shunting can be prevented.