Seminars in Neurosurgery 2000; 11(1): 27-40
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-11555
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

ADVANCES IN THE TREATMENT OF ADULT INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE

Michael L. Rolli1 , Neal J. Naff2
  • 1Department of Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia;
  • 2Division of Neurosurgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia; National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland; Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

 

ABSTRACT

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a frequent complication of intracranial hemorrhage and severe head trauma. Recent research suggests that IVH is a significant and independent contributor to morbidity and mortality in these conditions. Despite the contribution of IVH to poor outcome there has been little clinical research directed at improving the treatment of IVH. Indeed, until recently little effort has been made to directly treat IVH. Rather, most of the management of IVH has been directed at the treatment of its complications: obstructive and communicating hydrocephalus. Intraventricular thrombolysis has emerged as a promising new intervention that directly attacks the IVH itself. This review will discuss the etiology, presentation, and pathophysiology of IVH. The conventional management of IVH and its deficiencies will be discussed. The rationale for and the early clinical experience with intraventricular thrombolysis will be reviewed. Recommendations regarding the practical application of intraventricular thrombolysis will be offered.

KEYWORD

Intraventricular hemorrhage - thrombolysis - intracerebral hemorrhage

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