Choroid Plexus Coagulation
Coagulation of choroid plexus has been utilized as a treatment for
hydrocephalus with generally unsatisfactory results. The aim of treatment is to
decrease CSF pressure by reduction CSF production. Since not all CSF is produced
by the choroid plexus, there is a theoretical limit to the efficacy of this
procedure.
The idea of removing or coagulating choroid plexus as a treatment for
hydrocephalus dates back to the turn of the century. Early procedures met with
limited success, but subsequent investigators reported improved results and
lower morbidity and mortality rates. The efficacy of choroid plexus coagulation
is difficult to assess because there are no controlled comparisons with
ventricular shunting procedures, and authors use variable criteria to judge
success of the procedure. In general, although it is now technically feasible,
choroid plexus coagulation has been largely abandoned as ineffective as a means
of controlling hydrocephalus. |