Long term results of ventricular shunts performed prior to posterior fossa operation for tumor

Abstract

The data in 92 posterior fossa operations on 75 patients was studied. 37 patients had and 38 patients did not have elective precraniotomy shunts; 5 patients had to have postcraniotomy shunts. The patients who did not receive elective precraniotomy shunts were those in whom an associated hydrocephalus was either mild or was not present and their general condition was better; in general, they were not as ill. This study is believed to be based on objective clinical observations and deductive reasoning. Since the patients were not randomized the study is not based on statistical analysis. Because of the potential benefit to the patient, the precraniotomy shunting in posterior fossa tumor is thought to be effective and a valuable treatment. Its application, especially for patients who have evidence for associated hydrocephalus and increased intra-cranial pressure is expressed. The slight possibility of dissemination of malignancy outside the central nervous system axis for medulloblastoma is discussed.