Laparoscopic insertion of the peritoneal catheter in ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Review of 405 consecutive cases.

Background: Based upon our excellent previous experience with 151 adult patients and 39 children whom had the peritoneal catheter in ventriculoperitoneal shunting placed laparoscopically, we continued following this technique as a first-line-procedure in ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Now we analyzed our experience with additional 405 cases for a better comprehension of the complications, advantages and disadvantages of this procedure on this high number of patients. A strict interdisciplinary setting with the maximum of medical intraoperative competence was our goal and therefore better results.

Sandwich Wound Closure Reduces the Risk of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Posterior Fossa Surgery.

Posterior fossa surgery is demanding and hides a significant number of obstacles starting from the approach to the wound closure. The risk of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage in posterior fossa surgery given in the literature is around 8%. The present study aims to introduce a sandwich closure of the dura in posterior fossa surgery, which reduces significantly the number of CSF leaks (3.

Diffuse Spinal Leptomeningeal Spread of a Pilocytic Astrocytoma in a 3-year-old Child.

Pilocytic astrocytomas correspond to low-grade gliomas and therefore metastasize exceedingly rare. However, pilocytic astrocytomas are able to and leptomeningeal dissemination may be seen. What are the treatment options of these cases? We present a case report of a 3-year-old child with a pilocytic astrocytoma of the optic chiasm with leptomeningeal dissemination of the spinal meninges.