Comparison of Incidence and Risk Factors for Shunt-dependent Hydrocephalus in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients

Abstract

Objective : The objective of this study was to compare the incidence ofventricular shunt placement for shunt-dependent hydrocephalus (SDHC)after clipping versus coiling of ruptured aneurysms. Materials and Methods : A retrospective review was conducted in 215patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) who underwentsurgical clipping or endovascular coiling during the period fromMay 2008 to December 2011. Relevant clinical and radiographic datawere analyzed with regard to the incidence of hydrocephalus and ventriculo-peritoneal shunt (VPS). Patients treated with clipping were assignedto Group A, while those treated with coiling were assigned to Group B. Results : Of 215 patients (157 clipping, 58 coiling), no significant differencein the incidence of final VPS was observed between treatment modalities(15.3% vs. 10.3%) (p = 0.35). Independent risk factors for VPS fortreatment of chronic hydrocephalus were as follows: (1) older than 65years, (2) poorer Hunt-Hess grade IV and V, (3) Fisher grade III and IV,and (4) particularly initial presence of an intraventricular hemorrhage. Conclusion : In this study comparing two modalities for treatment ofaneurysm, there was no difference in the incidence of chronic hydrocephalusrequiring VPS. A significantly higher rate of shunt dependencywas observed for age older than 65 years, poor initial neurological status,and thick SAH with presence of initial intraventricular hemorrhage. By understandingthese factors related to development of SDHC and results, itis expected that management of aneurysmal SAH will result in a betterprognosis.