Endoscopic treatment of intraventricular cystic tumors.

Overview

OBJECTIVE: Intraventricular cystic tumors constitute a surgical challenge, because of their deep location and the histologically benign nature of most of them. We aim to present concisely, yet comprehensively, the role of neuroendoscopy in the treatment of intraventricular cystic tumors. METHODS: A literature review searching for applications of endoscopy in the treatment of intraventricular cystic tumors is presented. Our experience is added to the presented data. In controversial issues, a comparison is made with traditional treatment methods. RESULTS: Intraventricular endoscopy has been successfully used in the treatment of the whole range of intraventricular cystic tumors. The most common indication is the treatment of colloid cysts. In the treatment of colloid cysts, a comparison with microsurgical techniques showed that endoscopy is advantageous in regard to operative morbidity and postoperative shunt dependency but is associated with a slightly higher recurrence rate. CONCLUSION: Intraventricular endoscopy has emerged as a viable option in the treatment of intraventricular cystic tumors.