Endoscopic fenestration of arachnoid cyst of posterior cranial fossa through third ventriculostomy

Abstract

Arachnoid cysts (AC) are spaces with cerebrospinal fluid covered with arachnoid membrane. Most cysts are supratentorial and only 10-12% of ACs are found in posterior cranial fossa. This disease is usually diagnosed in childhood. In adults, ACs make up 1.4% of all focal lesions. ACs of posterior cranial fossa are often localized behind the cerebellum or in cerebellopontine angle. Most patients with cysts do not have permanent symptoms and should be followed-up. Surgery is indicated for cysts complicated by focal and hydrocephalic-hypertension symptoms. Microsurgical or endoscopic procedures are used. Surgical approach is determined by the closest location of cyst to brain surface. The authors report non-standard surgical approach for giant AC of posterior cranial fossa complicated by obstructive hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension and visual function impairment. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy was followed by AC fenestration through ventriculostomy. Symptoms disappeared within 6 months after surgery.