Choroid plexus cauterization (CPC)

What it is

Choroid plexus cauterization (CPC) is an endoscopic procedure that reduces the production of cerebrospinal fluid by cauterizing (using heat to treat) the choroid plexus — the tissue that produces most CSF. It is often combined with endoscopic third ventriculostomy.

Understanding Choroid plexus cauterization (CPC)

Because the choroid plexus produces most of the CSF, reducing its activity can help control hydrocephalus by decreasing fluid production. CPC is frequently performed together with ETV (a combination called ETV/CPC), particularly in infants, where ETV alone may be less successful. This combined approach has been used to improve outcomes in young children, including in settings where avoiding a shunt is especially valuable (such as where shunt follow-up and revision are difficult). CPC is performed endoscopically, often at the same time as ETV. Its use is individualized, considering the child's age, the cause of the hydrocephalus, and other factors. CPC adds a production-reducing strategy to the bypass that ETV provides.

Why it matters

Understanding CPC helps families see how reducing CSF production can complement ETV, especially in infants, as part of an approach (ETV/CPC) aimed at controlling hydrocephalus while avoiding a shunt.