EC26S-088: Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy in Kittens with Congenital Obstructive Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a condition where too much fluid builds up inside the brain. In kittens, this is often something they are born with, and it can show up in the first few months of life. Affected kittens may have a large, dome-shaped head and open soft spots on the skull. They may also show signs like being less alert, poor growth, trouble learning or seeing, walking in circles, having seizures, or even dying. Unfortunately, because treatment options are limited, many affected kittens face a poor prognosis, and euthanasia is often considered. Medicines may temporarily reduce the fluid, but surgery is usually needed to improve long-term outcomes. The most common surgery, called ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS), drains fluid from the brain to the belly but often leads to complications that require more surgeries. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is a minimally invasive procedure widely used in human children with hydrocephalus. Instead of placing an implant, ETV creates a small opening inside the brain that allows fluid to flow through a more natural pathway. This approach avoids many of the long-term risks associated with shunt placement. The goal of this study is to determine whether ETV can be safely and reliably performed in kittens with congenital obstructive hydrocephalus. This proof-of-concept study will focus on surgical feasibility, short-term safety, and early clinical outcomes, including careful monitoring for neurological and metabolic complications. If successful, this work could lay the foundation for future studies and ultimately offer a safer surgical option for kittens affected by this devastating condition.