The ETV Success Score is a validated predictor of 6-month procedural patency and is fundamental for determining shunt-independence candidates.
Hydrodynamic Sentinel Probe
Construct the 3-part ETVSS clinical profile to determine the statistical success of endoscopic third ventriculostomy vs conventional shunting.
Guidelines & Evidence
Clinical Details
Section 1
When to Use
When to Use
Evaluating infants and children with hydrocephalus for Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV).
Predicting the likelihood that ETV will successfully treat hydrocephalus without requiring subsequent VP shunt placement within 6 months.
Section 2
Formula & Logic
Why these factors matter
The success of an ETV depends heavily on CSF absorption mechanisms which are immature in very young infants (<1 month) and often permanently damaged by infection or widespread hemorrhage. Aqueductal stenosis represents purely obstructive hydrocephalus with intact distal absorption, making it the ideal candidate etiology.
Section 3
Pearls/Pitfalls
Impact of Prior Shunts
Patients who present with a blocked VP Shunt and are considered for an ETV "switch" have a lower probability of success compared to shunt-naïve patients, partly due to structural alterations in the subarachnoid space from chronic shunting.
Section 4
Evidence Appraisal
Primary Reference
Prediction of success in endoscopic third ventriculostomy: Validation of the ETV Success Score
Kulkarni AV et al. • J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2009;109(5):813-9
