Neuronavigation-guided endoscopic management of a pineal region tumour with obscured floor of the third ventricle: case report

Abstract

Background: Shunt surgery is frequently chosen to manage periventricular metastasis of pineal region tumours which obscured the floor of the third ventricle. However, this procedure falls short due to distant metastasis. Neuronavigation-guided endoscopic surgery offers a viable alternative.

Patient: A 17-year-old man became symptomatic from widespread periventricular metastasis of a pineal region tumour which completely obscured the floor of the third ventricle.

Results: Endoscopic tumour biopsy followed by neuronavigation-guided endoscopic third ventriculotomy was performed successfully.

Conclusion: This case report emphasizes the value of neuronavigation-guided endoscopic third ventriculostomy as a feasible surgical alternative for pineal region tumours with widespread periventricular metastasis that obscure the third ventricular floor.