Hydrocephalus
Also known as: Water on the brain, Increased intracranial pressure
Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. This excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain, which can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms and developmental problems if left untreated. It can be congenital or acquired.
Imagine your brain is like a house with water pipes. Hydrocephalus is like having too much water in those pipes, making the house (your brain) swell and not work properly. Doctors can put in a special tube to drain the extra water or make a new escape route for it.
Signs & Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision or double vision
- Difficulty walking
- Lethargy
- Irritability
- Seizures
- Cognitive impairment
- Developmental delay (in children)
- Enlarged head (in infants)
- Sunsetting eyes (in infants)
Treatment Options
Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt
HIGHLY EFFECTIVEEndoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
HIGHLY EFFECTIVEEndoscopic Third Ventriculostomy with Choroid Plexus Cauterization (ETV/CPC)
HIGHLY EFFECTIVEMedications to reduce CSF production (Acetazolamide, Furosemide)
MODERATELY EFFECTIVEPhysical therapy
SUPPORTIVEOccupational therapy
SUPPORTIVESpeech therapy
SUPPORTIVEDiagnosis
- Neurological examination
- Cranial ultrasound (in infants)
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Lumbar puncture
- Intracranial pressure monitoring
History
Hydrocephalus has been recognized since ancient times, with descriptions found in the writings of Hippocrates and Galen. Early treatments were largely ineffective, and the condition was often fatal. The development of shunt surgery in the 20th century revolutionized the management of hydrocephalus, significantly improving outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.
Recent Breakthroughs
Advancements in Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) Techniques
Refinements in ETV procedures, including the use of intraoperative neuro-navigation and advanced endoscopic tools, have improved success rates and reduced complications in select patients.
Development of Programmable Shunts with Wireless Monitoring
New shunt designs allow for non-invasive adjustment of drainage pressure and wireless monitoring of shunt function, potentially reducing the need for revision surgeries.