Temporary external valve drainage in hydrocephalus with increased ventricular fluid pressure. (Experiences with 202 cases). (Experiences with 202 cases).

When the ventricular fluid pressure has reached a level of 120 to 150 mm H2O, there is a risk of rapid internal herniation. The effects of corticoids and hyperosmolar drugs on this are not as striking as they are on brain oedema. The only efficient therapy is the establishment of an external ventricular drainage system proposed for the first time in 1941 by Ingraham and Campbell and regulated with a valve system by White et al. 1967. From our experience of 202 cases we review the technique, the indications, and the complications of ED.