Occluded fourth ventricle after multiple shunt revisions for hydrocephalus

Abstract

Trapped occluded fourth ventricle has been considered a rare occurrence. Intraventricular hemorrhage followed by repeated shunt revisions may increase the risk (8/47 cases). Because premature infants with intraventricular hemorrhage and shunted hydrocephalus often have preexisting neurologic abnormalities, dilation may produce clinically undetected further neurologic damage. Shunting improved function in both currently treated as well as 13 of 14 previously treated patients. In light of this observation, the importance of recognition is stressed.