Hydrocephalus

 

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within the ventricles (fluid-containing cavities) of the brain and may increase pressure within the head.

CSF has three functions: 1) it acts as a "shock absorber" for the brain and spinal cord; 2) it acts as a vehicle for delivering nutrients to the brain and removing waste; and 3) it flows between the cranium and spine to regulate changes in pressure within the brain.

Hydrocephalus can occur at any age, but is most common in infants and adults above 60 years.

Hydrocephalus is associated with developmental disorders aqueductal stenosis.including spina bifida (congenital defect of the spine) and encephalocele. Other causes can include bleeding within the brain, brain tumors, head injuries, complications of premature birth such as hemorrhage, or diseases such as meningitis or other infections.

​

Symptoms

Infants present with increased head size, inability to feed ,vomiting, dilated scalp veins.

In older children symptoms include headaches, vomiting, nausea, papilledema, sleepiness, or coma.

​

Diagnosis

Clinical examination and imaging as CT and MRI of brain

​

Treatment

There are two procedures performed one is VP shunt and other is ETV(Endoscopic third ventriculostomy). Once inserted, the shunt system usually remains in place for the duration of a patient's life. The shunt system continuously performs its function of diverting the CSF away from the brain, thereby keeping the intracranial pressure within normal limits. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy utilizes a tiny camera (endoscope) to look inside the ventricles, allowing the surgeon to create a new pathway through which CSF can flow.

​

​