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Published on: October 14, 2022
Monoblock external ventricular drainage system in the treatment of patients with acute hydrocephalus: a pilot study
Almir Ferreira de Andrade1, Wellingson Silva Paiva1, Iuri Santana Neville1
1Division of Neurological Surgery, Hospital das Clinicas, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil.
Background:
Infection is a major complication in patients undergoing external ventricular drainage (EVD). Our study aimed to evaluate the incidence of infection in a series with the monoblock EVD system.
Material And Methods:
46 patients treated with EVD at our emergency department were analyzed prospectively to research the incidence of infections with a new EVD system.
Results:
The average rate of infection was 8.7%. When we stratified the patients according to the exclusive use of EVD without craniotomies, we identified a reduction in the overall incidence of ventriculitis from 8.7% to 2.3%. Age, etiology, and the presence of ventricular bleeding were not statistically significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
Despite the small sample examined in this study, we believe that the monoblock system is a simple, inexpensive device that reduces accidental disconnection of the system.
Insights
The monoblock external ventricular drainage (EVD) system shows promise in reducing infection rates, particularly when used without craniotomies. This simple device may decrease complications in neurosurgical patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Disease
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Infection is a significant complication following external ventricular drainage (EVD).
- Evaluating novel EVD systems is crucial for patient safety and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the infection incidence associated with a monoblock EVD system.
- To determine the efficacy of the monoblock EVD in preventing complications.
Main Methods:
- Prospective analysis of 46 patients treated with EVD.
- Evaluation of infection rates in patients using the monoblock EVD system.
Main Results:
- The overall infection rate was 8.7%.
- Exclusive use of EVD without craniotomies reduced ventriculitis incidence to 2.3%.
- Age, etiology, and ventricular bleeding were not significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
- The monoblock EVD system is a simple and cost-effective device.
- This system appears to reduce accidental disconnections and associated infections.
