Anaesthetic management for ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion in an infant with Dandy–Walker Syndrome

Abstract

Dandy–Walker Syndrome (DWS) is a rare congenital brain anomaly affecting the cerebellum and the fourth ventricle. The chief components of the syndrome include cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle and agenesis or hypoplasia of the cerebellar vermis. These abnormalities are typically associated with hydrocephalus. Patients often present in infancy for cerebrospinal fluid shunt procedures. Anaesthetic concerns include those related to other frequently associated congenital abnormalities. Airway management requires particular attention. The limited literature on this subject suggests that these patients require postoperative intensive care admission. This is not always possible in the resource-limited environment. This case report describes the successful anaesthetic management of an infant with Dandy–Walker Syndrome without postoperative intensive care admission.