Repeated Cerebrospinal Fluid Removal Procedure in Older Patients With Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Ineligible for Surgical Treatment.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of repeated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tap procedures in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) patients ineligible for surgical treatment.

DESIGN: Prospective, monocentric, pilot study.

SETTING: University hospital.

PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-nine patients aged 75 years and older, ineligible for shunting surgical intervention.

INTERVENTION: Repeated CSF taps.

MEASUREMENTS: All patients underwent a comprehensive geriatric assessment before and after each CSF tap. Adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS: No major side effect was reported. Eleven patients showed no response to the first CSF tap test and were excluded. In the remaining 28 patients, all physical and cognitive functions improved after the drainage procedures, except for continence (which seemed poorly influenced). According to clinical judgment, the mean time frame of benefit between CSF taps was 7 months. Patients withdrawing from the protocol during the clinical follow-up showed a worsening of functional and cognitive performances after the interruption.

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Periodic CSF therapeutic taps are safe, allow a better control of iNPH symptoms, and prevent functional decline in geriatric patients.