Pediatric Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Disorders Program
Endoscopic Treatments
We treat all conditions related to abnormalities in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, including hydrocephalus. Treatments include use of the endoscope (a small camera with an attached light source) for making connections between obstructed ventricles; an endoscope may also be used to create a new pathway for flow of cerebrospinal fluid, known as an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). Endoscopes are also used on patients with previously placed shunts. For patients with prior abdominal surgery, pediatric general surgeons assist with laparoscopic catheter placement into the peritoneal space.
Chiari Malformation
Chiari malformation type I refers to protrusion of the lower part of the cerebellum (called cerebellar tonsils) through an opening at the base of the skull base (called the foramen magnum). The condition is associated with headaches at the back and lower part of the head that occur with bearing down (such as laughing or crying). The structural change may result in compression of the brainstem causing clumsiness, weakness or difficulty walking. We offer a less invasive surgery in which the bone and constrictive soft tissue is removed (called extradural decompression) in select cases, as well as the traditional opening of the covering of the brain (called an intradural decompression). In collaboration with anesthesia colleagues, we are studying ways of reducing post-operative pain by using ultrasound to perform a nerve block prior to surgery. Dr. Pisapia is recognized and endorsed by the International Chiari Association.
Conditions We Treat
- Chiari malformation type 1
- Chiari malformation type 2
- Hydrocephalus
- Congenital hydrocephalus
- Obstructive hydrocephalus
- Communicating hydrocephalus
- Low pressure hydrocephalus
- Post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus
- Aqueductal stenosis
- Arachnoid cyst
-
Dandy-Walker complex
Contact Us
Phone: 914.775.5437
Fax: 914.650.5437
19 Bradhurst Avenue
Suite 3050 N
Hawthorne, NY 10532
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19 Baker Avenue
Medical Arts Pavilion
Suite 301
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
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