OBJECTIVE: Neuroendoscopic surgery in children has particular features and is associated with different success rates (SR). The aim of this study was to identify putative factors that could influence the outcome in pediatric patients. METHODS: Clinical data of 177 patients under 18 years of age submitted to 200 consecutive neuroendoscopic procedures from January 2000 to January 2010 were reviewed. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 77%. Out of the patients with successful outcomes, 46% were under six months, 68% were between six months and one year of age, and 85% older than one year. Neuroendoscopic techniques provide very good results for a wide number of indications in children. Tumor-related cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation problems and aqueductal stenosis seem to be particularly well suited to neuroendoscopic treatment regardless of the patient's age. CONCLUSION: Patients' age and etiology of hydrocephalus were associated with a different outcome. In all cases, surgical experience is extremely important to reduce complications.
OBJECTIVE: Neuroendoscopic surgery in children has particular features and is associated with different success rates (SR). The aim of this study was to identify putative factors that could influence the outcome in pediatric patients. METHODS: Clinical data of 177 patients under 18 years of age submitted to 200 consecutive neuroendoscopic procedures from January 2000 to January 2010 were reviewed. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 77%. Out of the patients with successful outcomes, 46% were under six months, 68% were between six months and one year of age, and 85% older than one year. Neuroendoscopic techniques provide very good results for a wide number of indications in children. Tumor-related cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation problems and aqueductal stenosis seem to be particularly well suited to neuroendoscopic treatment regardless of the patient's age. CONCLUSION:Patients' age and etiology of hydrocephalus were associated with a different outcome. In all cases, surgical experience is extremely important to reduce complications.