The Ommaya reservoir, a small, dome-shaped device implanted under the scalp, plays a crucial role in delivering medication directly to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This ingenious device is most commonly used in treating conditions like leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, where cancer cells have spread to the meninges (membranes) surrounding the brain.
Instead of systemic chemotherapy, which might not effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, the Ommaya reservoir allows for targeted drug delivery. A needle is inserted through the skin into the reservoir, which is connected to a catheter inserted into one of the brain's ventricles. This direct route ensures a higher concentration of medication reaches the affected area, maximizing its effectiveness and minimizing systemic side effects.
While not a cure, the Ommaya reservoir can significantly improve the quality of life and extend survival for patients with specific neurological conditions, offering a beacon of hope in challenging circumstances.
