Pediatric posterior fossa tumors:  Preoperative predictors of chronic hydrocephalus.
Published: 2007
Language: eng
Number of pages: 143
ISBN-13: 9780494273456
Description: Introduction. In pediatric posterior fossa tumor patients, an unspecified 30% develop chronic hydrocephalus. Recent literature suggests that preoperative CSF diversion diminishes morbidity and cost. A preoperative prediction score of hydrocephalus could tailor and optimize these children's treatments.Methods. A literature search and formal qualitative interviews of experts were used to generate potential predictors. Data from 343 Toronto patients were used to construct the prediction score. Data from 111 Vancouver patients were used to validate the model.Discussion. This score will allow improved patient counseling, surgical planning, and identifies patients at high risk, who selectively, might be exposed to the risks of pre operative CSF diversion to improve outcome.Results. Significant risk factors and their prediction (score) were: age &lt; 2 (3), papilledema (1), hydrocephalus severity (2), cerebral metastatic spread (3), and estimated tumor pathology (1): total range (0-10). Scores > 5 were considered 'High Risk'. The score was validated using likelihood ratios.
Notes: Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 45-06, page: 3120.

Thesis (M.Sc.)--University of Toronto, 2007.

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