The value of metrizamide CT cisternography in the management of cerebral arachnoid cysts.

Arachnoid cysts may or may not communicate with the cerebrospinal fluid pathways. Patterns of communication were studied in six patients, using metrizamide computed tomography (CT) cisternography, ventriculography, and cystography. Two types of cysts were found: one with free communication with the cerebrospinal fluid pathways and one with restricted communication. This information can be useful in the surgical management of the cysts. When the cysts freely communicate wih the ventricles, ventricular shunting is the appropriate therapy, whereas when the cysts are noncommunicating, direct shunting of the cyst is indicated.