Inferior Short-term Safety Profile of Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy Compared With Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Placement for Idiopathic Normal-Pressure Hydrocephalus

Abstract

This is the first study that robustly assesses the perioperative complications and safety outcomes of ETV for iNPH. Compared with VPS, ETV is associated with higher perioperative mortality and complication rates. This consideration is important to weigh against the potential benefit of ETV: avoiding long-term shunt dependence. Prospective, randomized studies are needed.