Fenestration of intraventricular cysts using a flexible, steerable endoscope and the argon laser

Two infants with hydrocephalus and compartmentalization of the lateral ventricles due to cerebrospinal fluid infection were treated by fenestration of the ventricular cysts using the argon laser through a steerable flexible endoscope. Both children had undergone failed multiple shunting procedures that attempted to drain the lateral ventricular cysts. One child had chronic granulomatous disease and persistent Candida ventriculitis and meningitis. His infection resolved after removal of multiple shunt systems was made possible by endoscopic laser fenestration to convert a multilocular to a unilocular hydrocephalus. Postoperative computed tomographic scans and head circumference measurements showed arrested hydrocephalus in both cases, and both children remain symptom-free 6 months after operation. The argon laser was used to coagulate and incise the ventricular septae in both cases. The steerable flexible endoscope enabled excellent visualization of the ventricular system without manipulation of the endoscope at the corticotomy site. Necessary improvements in the design of the flexible endoscope and the delivery system for the argon laser are discussed.