Non-Tumor Obstructive Hydrocephalus Treated with Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy in Cameroon

Objective: In Sub-Saharan Africa, shunt dependence is a real threat for patients. For this reason, any method allowing shunt independence such as endoscopic third ventriculostomy should be promoted. The goal of this study was to show the advantages of neuroendoscopy in treating non-tumor obstructive hydrocephalus in Cameroon. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the cases of non-tumor obstructive hydrocephalus treated with endoscopic third ventriculostomy in our hospital. Results: Twenty patients (15 males, 5 females) underwent endoscopic third ventriculostomy as first choice treatment for non-tumor obstructive hydrocephalus. Their ages ranged from six months to 41 years (mean 11.96 years, median 20.75 years). Fourteen patients (70%) were children (≤18 years old), 6 were adults, 7 were under age of two years and 3 were below one. Computed tomography scan was the radiological tool used in all cases. None did a magnetic resonance imaging scan. Etiology of hydrocephalus was aqueductal stenosis in 18 cases and stenosis of the foramina of Luschka & Magendie in two. Aqueductal stenosis was associated with myelomeningocele in one case and shunt failure in another one. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy was successful in alleviating clinical symptoms with shunt independence in 19 cases (95%), but failed in one case. ETV success was not related to patient age. Cerebrospinal fluid leak occurred in two patients as post-operative complication (10%). Overall, ETV diminished treatment cost by 600 USD. Conclusion: Even in areas with limited medical equipment like in Sub-Saharan Africa where shunt dependence is a real danger, ETV can be routinely used to successfully treat non-tumor obstructive hydrocephalus.