Treatment: ETV & Other Procedures
Septostomy (septum pellucidotomy)
A septostomy is an endoscopic procedure that creates an opening in the membrane between the lateral ventricles, used to connect a trapped ventricle.
In short: Septostomy (septum pellucidotomy)
- It creates an opening in the septum between the lateral ventricles.
- It connects an isolated ventricle to the other.
- It allows a trapped ventricle to drain.
- It is performed endoscopically.
What it is
A septostomy (or septum pellucidotomy) is an endoscopic procedure in which a surgeon creates an opening in the septum pellucidum — the thin membrane separating the two lateral ventricles. It is used to connect an isolated (trapped) ventricle to the other.
Understanding Septostomy (septum pellucidotomy)
When one lateral ventricle becomes isolated (for example, by a blockage at its foramen of Monro) and enlarges on its own, a septostomy creates a passage in the septum so the trapped ventricle can drain into the other lateral ventricle, allowing both to be managed together (sometimes by a single shunt). This is performed endoscopically, through a small burr hole, as part of neuroendoscopic surgery. Septostomy addresses the specific problem of a trapped or isolated ventricle, restoring communication within the ventricular system. It is one of the targeted endoscopic procedures used in managing compartmentalized hydrocephalus, chosen based on the individual anatomy.
Why it matters
Understanding septostomy helps families see how a trapped ventricle can be reconnected to the rest of the ventricular system by creating an opening in the dividing membrane, allowing it to drain.
Common questions
What is a septostomy?
Creating an opening in the membrane between the lateral ventricles.
Why is it done?
To connect a trapped ventricle to the other so it can drain.
How is it performed?
Endoscopically.
Bottom line
A septostomy creates an opening in the membrane between the lateral ventricles to connect and drain a trapped ventricle, performed endoscopically.
Browse all 265 Hydrocephalus definitions
Read the Hydrocephalus patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator