Two-stage treatment of a tectal ganglioglioma: endoscopic third ventriculostomy followed by surgical resection.

Tumours of the quadrigeminal plate in adults are usually benign. Nevertheless, obstructive hydrocephalus due to compression of the Sylvian aqueduct is an almost invariable early finding. Whether or not direct excision is undertaken, temporary or permanent treatment of the hydrocephalus is warranted. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is an alternative to insertion of a shunt and provides both acute and long-term relief of hydrocephalus-related symptoms. We chose a two-stage approach for treating a tectal ganglioglioma in an adult: endoscopic third ventriculostomy followed by surgical excision. The advantages and disadvantages of each therapeutic strategy are discussed.