[Infectious risk from ventriculostomy]

Ann Fr Anesth Reanim. 1999 May;18(5):554-7. doi: 10.1016/s0750-7658(99)80132-4.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Ventriculostomy is a useful technique for the management of acute hydrocephalus or increased intracranial pressure. The mean rate of ventricular infections is 10%. This risk can be decreased by selecting indications, adherence to aseptic insertion techniques, avoiding CSF leakage, tunneling the catheter, using closed systems and limiting line manipulations. Duration of ventriculostomy drainage remains controversial, as well as systematic change of drain every five days of drainage. The value of local or general prophylactic antibiotic treatment remains to be substantiated.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Surgical Wound Infection / epidemiology*
  • Ventriculostomy / adverse effects*