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Neuropsychological outcome after endoscopic third ventriculostomy
Walter J Hader1, Brian L Brooks2, Lisa Partlo3
11Department of Clinical Neurosciences,University of CalgaryAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute,Calgary,Alberta,Canada.
Summary
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) effectively improved cognitive dysfunction in patients with obstructive hydrocephalus. Many patients experienced reliable gains in areas like visual memory, intelligence, and executive function after the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neuropsychology
- Neurology
Background:
- Cognitive dysfunction is a frequent symptom in patients with obstructive hydrocephalus.
- Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is a surgical option for managing hydrocephalus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of ETV on neuropsychological outcomes in patients with cognitive decline and obstructive hydrocephalus.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 13 patients undergoing ETV with pre- and post-operative neuropsychological testing.
- Analysis included clinical features, hydrocephalus etiology, ventricle size, and detailed cognitive assessments.
- Reliable Change Index was used to determine post-treatment cognitive changes.
Main Results:
- 85% of patients presented with cognitive dysfunction.
- 69% showed reliable improvement in at least one cognitive domain, with visual memory showing the greatest gains (42%).
- Improvements were also noted in intelligence, verbal memory, attention, and executive function; however, two patients declined in executive functioning.
Conclusions:
- ETV is a safe and effective procedure for improving cognitive dysfunction associated with hydrocephalus.
- Patients with isolated cognitive complaints may also benefit from ETV.
