ventriculostomy
A neurosurgical procedure involving placement of a catheter into the brain's ventricular system to drain cerebrospinal fluid or monitor intracranial pressure.
Full Definition
Ventriculostomy is a neurosurgical intervention that involves creating an opening into the ventricular system of the brain through placement of a catheter, typically via a burr hole in the skull. This procedure serves multiple purposes including drainage of excess cerebrospinal fluid in cases of hydrocephalus, monitoring of intracranial pressure in critically ill patients, and administration of medications directly into the ventricular system. External ventricular drains (EVDs) are temporary devices used in acute settings, while permanent ventriculoperitoneal shunts provide long-term CSF diversion. The procedure requires strict sterile technique and careful monitoring for complications such as infection, hemorrhage, or catheter malposition.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from permanent shunt procedures; typically refers to temporary external drainage systems.
In Context
- "Emergency ventriculostomy was performed to decompress acute hydrocephalus secondary to intraventricular hemorrhage." — Operative report
- "The ventriculostomy catheter was inserted at Kocher's point with successful CSF drainage." — Neurosurgical procedure note