Colloid cysts are benign brain tumors. They are benign brain tumors located in the ceiling of the third ventricle, a chamber within the brain filled with fluid. They are typically filled with a jelly-like, soft, gel-like substance. Colloid cysts cause hydrocephalus. They can manifest with symptoms such as headache, nausea and vomiting, gait disturbance, visual disturbances, impaired mental status, and double vision. One or more of these symptoms may be present. However, when they are small and not yet obstructing the flow of fluid between the brain chambers, they cause no symptoms. Only when they cause a blockage in the brain's fluid pathways do they first manifest as headaches. The only treatment is surgical removal.

Colloid cysts were described by the famous American neurosurgeon Cushing. An autopsy performed after Cushing's death revealed the presence of colloid cysts in him.

There are microscopic and endoscopic surgical techniques for treating colloid cysts. The most well-known and widely used is the microscopic technique. While the microscopic technique has many advantages, its most feared aspect is the higher risk of paralysis on one side of the body compared to endoscopic surgery. Both techniques can cause partial and temporary memory loss in patients.

Although I use both techniques, I generally prefer endoscopic surgery.

You can watch my videos explaining endoscopic colloid cyst surgery below.