Volume 67 Number 4 September 2000	back to contents

Continuing Experience with Subgaleal Shunting	322-326
Martin H. Savitz, M.D., and Leonard I. Malis, M.D.
Address correspondence to Martin H. Savitz, M.D., 30 Old Phillips Hill Road, New City, NY 10956.

ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate subgaleal shunting - the diversion of cerebrospinal fluid into the subgaleal space for temporary absorption by the membranes of the scalp.

METHOD: Eighty-one (81) patients were treated over a 20-year period. There were 22 cases of hypertensive hydrocephalus, 52 cases of acute head trauma, and 7 cases of chronic subdural hematoma. The simple surgical technique is described.

RESULTS: Of the eight-one patients, 33 improved, 27 did not change, and 21 expired within 72 hours. Intracranial pressure was monitored directly in 22 cases and demonstrated that subgaleal shunting provided effective short-term treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: This simple, closed method for drainage of cerebrospinal fluid avoids the complications of open ventriculostomy or open drainage of the subdural space.

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