Abstract
Background Microsurgical resection, stereotactic aspiration, endoscopically assisted microsurgical
resection, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt have been the treatment options for colloid
cysts of the third ventricle. Recently, an endoscopic approach has been recognized
as an effective alternative to open surgery. There is suspicion about the long-term
recurrence rate and about obtaining complete removal of cyst.
Patients and Methods This is a prospective study of 24 patients with colloid cyst who underwent endoscopic
resection. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans revealed hydrocephalus in all
the patients. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was done in all cases.
Results Age ranged from 16 to 57 years. There were 16 male and 8 female patients. The diameter
of the cyst varied from 14 to 24 mm. Operating time ranged from 90 to 156 minutes.
Total resection was achieved in 21 patients. All patients with subtotal excision underwent
coagulation of residual cyst wall. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 78 months
(mean, 37 months). None of the patients developed any symptoms at 26, 31, and 39 months
of follow-up. Preoperative symptoms disappeared in all the patients except for memory
disorders and seizures in one patient each. No residual cyst was observed on the postoperative
MRIs in 21 patients. Hospital stay was 4 to 10 days (median, 6 days). No endoscopic
operation was converted into an open resection.
Conclusion Endoscopic excision of a colloid cyst is an effective and safe alternate method.
Although the follow-up time was short, residual cyst wall remained asymptomatic without
any evidence of growth after subtotal excision and coagulation of wall.
Keywords
colloid cyst - third ventricle - central nervous system neoplasm - central nervous
system cyst - nervous system diseases
