ABSTRACT
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy [ETV] has been shown to be a sufficient alternative in the surgical treatment of occlusive hydrocephalus. To elucidate the ongoing discussion of indication and surgical technique a prospective analysis of 10 consecutive ETVs was conducted. Ten of ETVs were performed [4 male and 6 female patients] in Suez canal university, their ages ranged from 4-24 years [mean age, 11.5 yr]. hydrocephalus was caused by posterior fossa tumor [mostly medulloblastoma]. Surgery had been done with rigid endosope with a working length of 30cm and an outer diameter of 2.4mm equipped with four channels for instruments. Suction and irrigation and ROD lens optics system. ETV was accomplished in all cases. The overall success rate was 100%. Complications were few included one case of intraoperative arterial bleeding, superficial skin infection also in another. There were no permanent morbidities or mortalities. ETV is the treatment of choice for obstructive hydrocephalus; ETV is most effective in treating uncomplicated occlusive hydrocephalus caused by posterior fossa tumors. Blunt perforation of the flour of third ventricle with dilatation by balloon catheter is the preferred method to accomplish free communication of CSF through prepontine cistern, continuous training and meticulous technique are essential to avoid ETV complications which are few but sometimes fatal