CSF Dynamics of Hydranencephaly

Eighteen infants and children with typical congenital hydranencephaly were studied by pneumoencephalography, water-soluble contrast ventriculography, and cisternography (radioisotope or metrizamide). Pneumoencephalography and ventriculography suggested that the aqueduct was obstructed or markedly stenotic in all cases. Cisternography demonstrated blocks at the aqueduct and at the level of the basal-ambient cisterns in most cases. These findings support the concept that aqueduct stenosis is an important factor in the hydrocephalic process of hydranencephaly.