Anaesthetic management of a parturient with a colloid cyst of the third ventricle

Abstract

A colloid cyst in the third ventricle near the foramen of Monroe can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow from the lateral ventricles. Any change in the CSFpressure on either side of the cyst can lead to displacement and thus precipitate acute hydrocephalus. Management of the confinement of a patient with a colloid cyst must therefore aim to minimize changes in CSFpressure. We describe our management of a patient with a small colloid cyst who was permitted to labour with the assistance of patient-controlled epidural analgesia. The available alternatives are discussed.