When craniopharyngioma presents with hydrocephalus, markedly raised intracranial pressure, or threatened visual function, urgent intervention is required to prevent irreversible neurological or visual harm.
Raised intracranial pressure and/or vision loss — including endangered vision — are recognised indications for urgent surgical decompression. Hydrocephalus complicating craniopharyngioma demands immediate assessment and prioritised management before definitive tumour treatment.
Management centres on emergency surgery to relieve pressure. The appropriate surgical strategy is determined by specific lesion and presentation factors. The complete decision algorithm, including all options and sequencing, is available in the structured protocol.
Relief of raised intracranial pressure and reversal of visual compression symptoms.