Colloid cysts are mucous-like masses that most commonly appear near the center of the brain, at the point where two of the natural fluid chambers of the brain, the lateral ventricles, drain into the third ventricle. By obstructing the flow of fluid into the third ventricle, colloid cysts can cause headache, confusion, and even death. Surgery to remove the colloid cyst generally cures the patient.
At UPMC, colloid cysts are typically removed using Neuroendoport® Surgery. Neuroendoport Surgery provides access to the cyst through a dime-size channel. This minimally invasive approach offers the benefits of minimal scarring, fewer side effects and complications, and faster recovery times than with traditional surgery, in our experience at UPMC.
Colloid cysts can be diagnosed by imaging studies such as CT and MRI scans.
Your physician will also ask you about your symptoms. These may include:
- headaches
- confusion
- memory problems
- loss of consciousness
In most cases, the recommended treatment for colloid cysts is surgical removal.
Neuroendoport® Surgery offers a minimally invasive option for tumors and lesions within the ventricles (fluid spaces) or for deep-seated tumors within the substance of the brain. A narrow tube or port allows doctors to access tumors through a tiny incision in the scalp, in contrast to traditional brain surgery.
