[Radioisotopic methods for studying cerebrospinal fluid shunts]

Abstract

The article presents a general and critical review of the radio-isotopic methods for assessing the function of the surgical shunts of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The radio-isotope cisternography may indirectly demonstrate the function of the shunt by the postoperative modification of the eventual ventricular reflux and of the permeability of the subarachnoid spaces on the cerebral convexity. The methods of direct ventricular injection of the indicator permit a more direct assessment of the drainage, as based on a scintigraphy, or on the quantitative study of the cephalic radio-activity, or on the demonstration of radio-activityon a target-organ. The direct injection of a highly diffusible indicator in the valve allows a quantitative measurement of the flow of CSF in the shunt and brings morphological arguments for the localization of the eventual occlusion. The technical aspects of the latter method are critically discussed and illustrated by personal results.