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. 1978 Nov;41(11):961–971. doi: 10.1136/jnnp.41.11.961

Adult idiopathic communicating hydrocephalus with and without shunting.

C P Hughes, B A Siegel, W S Coxe, M H Gado, R L Grubb, R E Coleman, L Berg
PMCID: PMC493207  PMID: 309503

Abstract

The outcome in 37 adult patients with idiopathic communicating hydrocephalus treated by ventriculoatrial shunting is presented. Only 33% showed definite improvement, and no diagnostic procedures accurately predicted the outcome of surgery. These were compared with a "control" group of 12 patients who were not shunted; 50% of these were stable for up to 36 months. These findings, and the high frequency of serious complications (35%), suggest caution in recommending a shunt procedure.

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Selected References

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