Rapid Clearance of Lateral Ventricular Hematoma via Frontal Eminence Puncture and Aspiration: A Technical Note

BackgroundIntraventricular extension of a parenchymal hemorrhage is an independent predictor of poor outcome and might be complicated by delayed hydrocephalus. We describe a method for the rapid and effective removal of a lateral ventricular hematoma via catheter-based puncture and aspiration. MethodsA catheter-based aspiration of a ventricular hematoma via a frontal eminence (FE) puncture was performed in 10 patients with thalamic and ganglionic hemorrhage perforating into the lateral ventricle. Paralleling the long axis of the lateral ventricle, a flexible silicone catheter was moved anteroposteriorly and rotated simultaneously to facilitate clot aspiration and removal. Computed tomography scans before and after surgery were compared for assessment of ventricular clot volume, Graeb score, and the ventriculocranial ratio (VCR). The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score were assessed at 14 days and 12 months following surgery, respectively. ResultsIn all 10 patients, catheter-based aspiration resulted in substantial hematoma removal with a clearance rate of 64.9%, a reduced Graeb score by 61.8%, and an elevated GCS score by 52.7%. The procedure was performed safely without occurrence of another hemorrhage, infection, and catheter obstruction in any case. At 12-month follow-up, VCR was reduced by 22.5%, no delayed hydrocephalus occurred, and a favorable outcome with an average GOS of 4.6 was observed in this small cohort of patients. ConclusionCatheter-based aspiration of a ventricular hematoma via FE puncture rapidly, efficiently, and safely reduced the clot in the ventricular system, prevented delayed hydrocephalus sufficiently, and produced a favorable outcome.