Fetal hydrocephalus: Surgical treatment

Abstract

Fetal hydrocephalus continues to present a challenge, not only for neurosurgeons but also for obstetricians and the entire community involved in the medical, religious, ethical, and legal aspects related to this condition. In the early twentieth century, fetal hydrocephalus was a cause of maternal mortality due to uterine rupture (Feeney and Barry, J Obstet Gynaecol Br Emp 61:652-656, 1954). Currently, however, with the use of diagnostic tools such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a pregnant woman has the option to terminate her pregnancy, especially in countries where abortion is legal.