Frontal and temporal horn ratio: A valid and reliable index to determine ventricular size in paediatric hydrocephalus patients?

Abstract

Because there is currently no sufficient and prevalent parameter for estimating ventricular size in paediatric hydrocephalus patients by using cranial ultrasound, a new measurement index, called the "frontal and temporal horn ratio", is presented in this study. The advantage of the new quotient is that it can be detected in easily obtainable coronal ultrasound planes. A retrospective analysis of 149 MRIs of young hydrocephalus patients proved the new index to be a promising parameter of ventricular size assessment. Statistical comparison between the "frontal and temporal horn ratio" and the already validated "frontal and occipital horn ratio" revealed a strong and linear correlation between the two quotients. Current research is now evaluating the reliability of the new index in the context of an ultrasound study; first results indicate similar positive findings. © 2012 Springer-Verlag/Wien.