Need for complementary use of air ventriculography and computerized tomographic scanning in infected hydrocephalus

Shunt failure in a hydrocephalic infant revealed a limitation of computerized tomographic scanning in the evaluation of hydrocephalus. The possibility of unilateral hydrocephalus in the patient who has a history of ventriculitis suggests a need for air ventriculography or pneumoencephalography before treatment by ventricular shunting. Air studies are also advised before external ventricular drainage and intrathecal antibiotic treatment to prevent incomplete therapy in cases where the lateral ventricles do not communicate. (Neurosurgery, 6: 98--98, 1980)