Navigator system-assisted endoscopic fenestration of a symptomatic cyst in the septum pellucidum--technique and cases report

Abstract

Expanding cysts of the septum pellucidum are rare and frequently manifest as intermittent headaches. Although the technique of endoscopic fenestration has been used since 1999, only a limited number of cases have been reported. We have added the use of a navigator system to guide keyhole creation and endoscopic access. To provide experience in navigator endoscopic treatment of symptomatic cyst of septum pellucidum and long-term follow-up of the surgical result. Under the guidance of the navigator system, a burr hole was made and rigid endoscope was inserted into the lateral ventricle through a working sheath. With direct visualization, only one side of the lateral wall of the cyst was fenestrated. And a grasping basket was used to further dilate the perforated hole. Patient A, a 14-year-old male adolescent, had an acute onset of severe headache with increased intracranial pressure. Patient B was a 37-year-old woman with a diagnosis of medically intractable migraine. Both patients experienced dramatic symptomatic relief after surgery at 4.5- and 2-year follow-up exams, respectively. The technique of navigator-assisted endoscopic fenestration in the treatment of a symptomatic cyst of the septum pellucidum might be a safe and effective method. It achieved satisfactory results in our two patients.