Endoscopic third ventriculostomy success rate
Overall success rate is ≈ 56% (range of 60–94% for nontumoral aqueductal stenosis (AqS)). Highest maintained patency rate is with previously untreated acquired AqS. The success rate in infants may be poor because they may not have a normally developed subarachnoid space. There is a low success rate (only ≈ 20% of TVs will remain patent) if there is pre-existing pathology including:
1. tumor
2. previous shunt
3. previous SAH
4. previous whole-brain radiation (success with focal stereotactic radiosurgery is not known)
5. significant adhesions visible when perforating through the floor of the third ventricle at the time of performance of ETV
Also in the elderly, Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a safe and efficient procedure, with success rates similar to the younger population. Further research is required to set up a prognostic scoring system for this age group 1).
A repeat endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus cauterization can be an effective salvage therapy in the event of ETV failure 2).
Scores
see Endoscopic third ventriculostomy success score (ETVSS)